HEALTH SCAN (continued):
ABDOMEN- PELVIS:
To achieve maximum benefit, screening CT of the abdomen and pelvis should include Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography). This necessitates a colon cleansing preparation (laxative) similar to that used for conventional colonoscopy. It also necessitates distending the colon with air after you are on the CT exam table. These prerequisites unfortunately discourage some from choosing this type of colon evaluation. We stress however that colon cancer is one the most common causes of death in the United States among both men and women. This is particularly frustrating for healthcare providers since colon cancer arises from polyps and may be prevented by discovery and removal of the polyps.
After distending the colon with air the scanner obtains “thin slices” through the abdomen and pelvis with the patient in the supine and prone positions. The images of the air distended colon are evaluated in multiple planes and utilizing a sophisticated software program to view the colon “endoscopically”. This is an accurate method for detection of colon cancer and polyps 1.0 cm in size or greater. Additionally, all of the solid organs of the abdomen and pelvis are evaluated as well. This includes the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, adrenals, lymph nodes, uterus, ovaries and prostate. It also provides assessment of the aorta to exclude aortic aneurysm.
COLONOSCOPY
| CT | Conventional | |
| PREP | Laxitive | Laxitive |
| EXAM | Several Minutes | Several Hours |
| SEDATION | None Required | Anesthetic |
| COST | $500-1000 depending on what others areas are scanned | $1500-2000 |
| WHAT'S VISUALIZED | Colon-Inner and Outer Wall Plus all the Intra-Abdominal and Pelvis Organs | |
| POLYP DISCOVERY AND REMOVAL |
Discovery Polyps > 1cm | Discovery and Removal of most Polyps and biopsy of "mass" |
You may also request the basic HealthScan which includes screening CT of the chest, abdomen, pelvis, coronary calcification scoring, and bone densitometry. The fee is $775. This exam does not evaluate the colon however we strongly recommend you include the virtual colonoscopy which is an additional $300.
For the most complete evaluation of the heart and coronary arteries, CT angiography of the coronary arteries (with contrast) may be added for an additional $600. The contrast used for the cardiac exam will be very helpful in evaluating the intra-abdominal organs, particularly the kidneys and bladder.