Virtual Colonoscopy

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Get a Virtual Colonoscopy at South Jersey Radiology

A virtual colonoscopy, also known as CT colonography, is a minimally invasive screening to check the health of your colon and rectum. This technique helps to find early signs of colon cancer or other abnormalities such as polyps, growths that can cause chronic irritation and may become cancerous over time. Instead of using a long, tube-like camera and sedation required by a traditional colonoscopy, a virtual colonoscopy uses low-dose CT technology without sedation to take high-quality images of the small intestine.

Why choose it over a traditional colonoscopy?

A virtual colonoscopy is often chosen over a traditional colonoscopy because it offers a more comfortable and convenient experience for you. No sedation allows you to return to your normal activities quicker and drive yourself home immediately following the study. Advanced CT technology is an accurate alternative for the tube-like camera used for traditional colonoscopy greatly improves comfort and scan time.

Who should get one?

A virtual colonoscopy may be a good option for those who need a colon screening and prefer a less invasive option. A virtual colonoscopy may be right for you if you’re:

Age 45 or older and due for a routine colonoscopy
A medical condition prevents you from undergoing a traditional colonoscopy
You are looking for a quicker or more comfortable alternative

While a virtual colonoscopy serves as an alternative for a traditional colonoscopy, it is important to know if abnormalities are found, you may still need a traditional colonoscopy for further evaluation or removal. The benefits and drawbacks of this imaging study should be discussed with your gastroenterologist or primary doctor to determine if it is appropriate for you.

Our Virtual Colonoscopy Locations

South Jersey Radiology offers virtual colonoscopies across 4 of our office locations. SJRA offers evening and weekend hours with select locations offering same-day and next-day appointments to meet your busy schedule.

Locations Providing:

• Sewell (Washington Twp)

• Turnersville

• Voorhees (Carnie Blvd)

• West Deptford

24/7 Online Scheduling

Step 1: Select Your Study & Insurance

Choose your study by imaging technique and primary insurance provider.

Step 2: Fill Out Our Brief Questionnaire

Answer our screening questions to ensure the study is right for you.

Step 3: Choose Your Date & Time

Select from one of our locations that works with your schedule.

Step 4: Log In to Your Account

Create or log into your appointment management dashboard to confirm.

Patient Reviews

South Jersey Radiology provides inviting outpatient facilities accompanied by friendly and supportive staff, making for a comfortable experience for our patients.

What to expect during your Virtual Colonoscopy

A virtual colonoscopy uses a CT scanner to take high-resolution images of your colon and rectum. These images are captured at various angles, called slices, to create a 3D view of your large intestine, similar to what your doctor would see during your traditional colonoscopy.

How do I prepare?

To get the clearest images possible, your colon needs to be empty. That means you will be asked to do a bowel preparation the day before your scan, which involves drinking a solution to clean out your bowels. When you arrive for your appointment, you will be asked to change into a gown and lie on a table. Our technologist will ensure you are laying comfortably prior to starting the study.

A small, flexible tube is gently placed just inside the rectum where a tiny bit of air will be introduced. This encourages the colon to expand and ensures clear, detailed images can be captured. The scan itself takes no longer than 15 minutes, and you’ll be in steady communication with our team through out the entire process.

View our available Virtual Colonoscopy appointments at a location near you today

Understanding Your Results

After your scan, one of our board-certified radiologists will review the images and look for any signs of concern, such as polyps, inflammation, and other abnormalities.

A detailed report will be sent to your doctor who will go over the results with you. They’ll explain what was found, what it means for your health, and whether any follow-up is needed. If polyps or other issues are found, your doctor may recommend a traditional colonoscopy to examine them more closely or remove them.

Our goal is to provide clear answers to help you and your doctor to guide the next best step in your care.

Why Choose SJRA for Your Virtual Colonoscopy

South Jersey Radiology Associates (SJRA) has set the standard for quality CT imaging across the region since 1938.

Board-certified, subspecialized radiologists who analyze 48,000+ CTs each year
4 convenient locations across Burlington, Camden, and Gloucester counties offering virtual colonoscopies
Evening and weekend hours available, with same-day and next-day appointments at select locations
In-network with 99% of health insurance plans, including Aetna®, AmeriHealth®, Blue Cross Blue Shield®, Cigna®, Humana®, and UnitedHealthcare®
Costs up to 60% less than hospital-based imaging

Virtual Colonoscopy Frequently Asked Questions

What is a virtual colonoscopy?

Also known as a CT colonography, a virtual colonoscopy is a minimally invasive colon screening alternative to a traditional colonoscopy. This imaging technique uses low-dose CT technology to detect early signs of colon cancer and other conditions.

Is it painful?

A virtual colonoscopy is generally comfortable, especially when compared to a traditional colonoscopy. During the study, you may feel pressure or fullness as air is used to expand the colon, but the discomfort is mild and temporary.

How long does the scan take?

The scan itself usually takes no longer than 15 minutes. The entire visit may take 30 to 45 minutes, including preparation and check-in.

How do I prepare?

Our team will provide specific instructions based on your medical history before your appointment. A bowel preparation is required to ensure your colon is clear so high quality images can be captured. A bowel preparation usually involves drinking a special solution and taking a laxative during certain times prior to your appointment.

Is it as accurate as a traditional colonoscopy?

A virtual colonoscopy is very effective at detecting large polyps and other abnormalities affecting the colon. If anything suspicious is found, your doctor may recommend a traditional colonoscopy for further evaluation or removal.

When will I receive my results?

Once your study is completed, one of our board-certified, subspecialized radiologists will analyze the results and develop a detailed report for your doctor. We will make sure your doctor receives the results in time for your follow up visit with them.

Is it covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for a virtual colonoscopy varies depending on the provider. Certain providers claim a virtual colonoscopy is an investigational study and will instruct you to get a traditional colonoscopy instead if cost share coverage is needed. It is important to speak with your insurance provider before scheduling your virtual colonoscopy.