Virtual Colonoscopy vs. Traditional Colonoscopy: What Beverly Hills & Santa Monica Patients Should Know

Colorectal cancer screening is one of the most effective preventive healthcare measures available today, and patients now have more than one option. The two most common screening methods that come up in clinical discussions are virtual colonoscopy and traditional colonoscopy. While these exams share the same goal of evaluating the colon for polyps and colorectal masses, they differ significantly in how they are accomplished, what the patient experiences, and which approach physicians recommend.

If you’ve been told that you need colorectal screening, or if you are just comparing your options, here is what you need to consider about how a traditional vs. a virtual colonoscopy in Beverly Hills & Santa Monica.

What Is a Virtual Colonoscopy?

A virtual colonoscopy, also known as CT colonography, is essentially a non-invasive imaging exam that uses computed tomography technology (a CT scan) to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the colon and rectum. These images then allow our radiologists to visualize the interior of the colon and identify polyps, masses, or other structural abnormalities without physically inserting a colonoscope into the colon. It also can identify abnormalities outside of the colon.

Virtual colonoscopy, however, does still require bowel preparation similar to a traditional colonoscopy to ensure a clean colon. During the exam, our technologists will insert a small, flexible tube into the rectum so as to gently inflate the colon with carbon dioxide.

What Is a Traditional Colonoscopy? 

A traditional colonoscopy is a procedure during which a gastroenterologist inserts a long, flexible tube with a fiberoptic system through the anus into the rectum, and advances it through the entire length of the colon. This direct visual examination allows the gastroenterologist to inspect the colon lining in real time. At times, the typical colon is longer than a colonoscope, so the entire colon may not be visualized.

Traditional colonoscopy is more invasive, and requires the administration of sedation for patients’ comfort. Consequently, there will be a recovery time after the exam and patients will need a chaperoned driver in order to leave the facility. 

The key advantage of traditional colonoscopy is that should an abnormality be discovered, it can be biopsied or removed during the procedure. 

However, a possible – and dreaded – complication of a traditional colonoscopy is a perforated colon. Perforations are extremely rare with a virtual colonoscopy procedure. 

Key Differences Between Virtual Colonoscopy and Traditional Colonoscopy

Procedural Differences

Virtual colonoscopy: Non-invasive imaging exam using advanced CT technology. We do not insert a colonoscope into the colon.

Traditional colonoscopy: Invasive endoscopic procedure using a flexible colonoscope that travels through the colon.

Sedation and Recovery

Virtual colonoscopy: No sedation is required. Patients leave our imaging center and resume normal activities immediately without restrictions.

Traditional colonoscopy: Sedation is standard practice. Patients need several hours to recover from sedation and require a driver for discharge.

Detection and Intervention

Virtual colonoscopy: Detects polyps, masses and structural abnormalities. Approximately 5% of patients will require a follow-up traditional colonoscopy to deal with certain abnormalities. 95% of patients will return for routine screening in five years.

Traditional colonoscopy: Allows physicians to detect and address findings during the procedure. 

Time Commitment

Virtual colonoscopy: The scan itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your total appointment time is minimal.

Traditional colonoscopy: You will need a longer appointment time due to sedation administration, procedure duration, and post-procedure monitoring.

Bowel Preparation

Both exams require bowel preparation. Patients follow a prescribed diet and colon cleansing the day before the exam. Although different, the preparation process is comparable for both procedures.

Which Exam Is Right for You?

The choice between a virtual colonoscopy and a traditional colonoscopy depends on several clinical and personal factors, including:

• Your age and colorectal cancer risk profile
• Previous screening history and results
• Personal or family history of polyps or colon cancer
• Medical conditions that may affect your ability to undergo sedation
• Physician recommendation based on your specific situation

Virtual colonoscopy may be an appropriate option for patients who cannot tolerate sedation due to other health conditions, those who prefer a less invasive screening method, or patients at average risk with no history of polyps. It can also serve as a screening tool for individuals who have had incomplete traditional colonoscopies in the past.

Physicians often recommend traditional colonoscopy when there is a higher likelihood of finding and removing polyps, when a patient has a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, or when symptoms such as rectal bleeding or unexplained weight loss are present. 

Your healthcare provider can help determine which exam is most appropriate based on your individual health profile.

Why Colorectal Screening Matters

Routine colorectal screening helps identify polyps and early-stage cancers before symptoms develop. When physicians discover colorectal cancer at an early stage, outcomes are significantly better. This is why physicians emphasize the importance of staying current with recommended screening guidelines.

For average-risk adults, colorectal cancer screening typically begins at age 45. Individuals with risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain genetic conditions may need to begin screening earlier.

Screening saves lives. Whether you choose a virtual colonoscopy or a traditional colonoscopy, the most important decision is to complete your screening on schedule.

Virtual Colonoscopy in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica

LSG Imaging provides virtual colonoscopy in Beverly Hills & Santa Monica using advanced CT technology that produces the detailed imaging your physician needs to make accurate diagnostic decisions. We operate from two convenient locations, which means shorter wait times for appointments and flexible scheduling.

Our radiologists specialize in abdominal and gastrointestinal imaging. We review your CT colonography images and typically share the results with you during your visit. If you choose to have a virtual colonoscopy, we will handle the scheduling, provide you with clear preparation instructions & kit, and guide you through the process.

Making an Informed Screening Decision

If your doctor recommends colorectal screening, there are a few questions worth asking: 

If I have a virtual colonoscopy and they find significant abnormalities and/or significant polyps, what happens next? Approximately 5% of patients will need a traditional colonoscopy to remove them. Some patients prefer to start with the less invasive option, with the understanding that if they’re part of the 5% that require additional evaluation they will need a therapeutic traditional colonoscopy.

What if I have experienced difficulty with a colonoscopy in the past? Virtual colonoscopy can be a practical alternative for patients who have had incomplete traditional colonoscopies due to anatomy, discomfort, or other factors.

Does my insurance cover virtual colonoscopy? Coverage varies by plan. LSG Imaging accepts Medicare. Some plans cover virtual colonoscopy as a screening tool for average-risk patients, while others require specific clinical indications or prior authorization. We recommend contacting your insurance provider before scheduling, to confirm your coverage and understand any out-of-pocket costs. Our office is happy to provide you with a superbill following your exam, so you can submit it to your insurance provider. 

Schedule Your Virtual Colonoscopy at Our Beverly Hills or Santa Monica Locations

A virtual colonoscopy is an effective way to be proactive about screening for colorectal cancer. If your choice is a CT colonography exam, scheduling your scan is how you move to action. 

Contact us online or call our Beverly Hills location at 310-859-8104 or Santa Monica location at 310-394-2761 today to schedule your virtual colonoscopy.