CT Colonography

The exam will only last about 15 minutes. CT Colonography requires rectal insertion of a narrow, flexible tube. Air is pumped through this tube to expand the folds of the colon. You’ll lie on a table that rides on a track through the doughnut-shaped scanner. You’ll be asked to relax and lie still (sometimes on your back, other times on your stomach) so that the machine can capture clear images. You may be asked to hold your breath for up to 30 seconds. During the scan, you may hear low humming sounds from the CT machine as it rotates around you, producing images from different angles. These images are then studied on a computer screen by your radiologist.

Like with any conventional colonoscopy, you must follow a bowel-emptying regimen before the exam to enable clear imaging of the tissues. This regimen includes a liquid diet and prescription laxatives to eliminate all solid material from your colon. Find full preparation instruction here.

One of our subspecialized radiologists will analyze the 3D images of your colon and send a report to your physician within one week of the study. Your physician will contact you with the results.

Carolinas Imaging Services – Ballantyne
Carolinas Imaging Services – Huntersville
Carolinas Imaging Services – Matthews
Carolinas Imaging Services – Rock Hill
Carolinas Imaging Services – SouthPark
Atrium Mercy
Atrium Main

This procedure requires a physician referral. Typically your referring physician will schedule an appointment for you. If you have been asked to schedule the appointment yourself, please have your physician's order and any pre-authorization required by your insurance or health plan provider in hand, and call 704-442-4390.

Please check with your insurance plan to confirm that the procedure is covered. You may be responsible for all or a portion of the bill.  Payment may be required at the time of service. For questions regarding insurance coverage, and/or billing please call 704-362-7020.