Is the procedure right for you? There are some big advantages: with the virtual colonoscopy, there is no risk of perforating the colon, no need for intravenous sedation and you won’t have to take a day off work or recruit someone to drive you home. But there are downsides, too. You still need the colon cleansing the night before, which many people consider the worst part. The cost, which averages about $1,000, is not covered by insurance. And the technique isn’t recommended for those at high risk of polyps, since doctors will have to go in with a scope anyway if they find something suspicious. It’s also not easy to find centers with the software used in this study. For available locations, e-mail patientinfo@ viatronix .com or call the company at 866-887-4636.
