Virtual colonoscopy (non-enhanced) at Acibadem City Clinic Mladost!

What is it?

Virtual colonoscopy, or CT colonography, is a method where images are obtained using a computed tomography scanner, as in optical colonoscopy.
In order to obtain an informative assessment to replace the conventional method, some preparation is necessary (as in the optical colonoscopy): cleaning or emptying the large intestine with a preparation taken orally as specifically prescribed, and a diet excluding the intake of cellulose-rich foods.
During the examination, a thin catheter is placed in the anus, and the colon is filled with gas – air or carbon dioxide. A CT scan is performed, and then the obtained information is processed by a computer to produce a virtual image of the colon.

When properly performed, Virtual Colonoscopy can detect tumors and polyps, even when they are "hidden" in the folds of the intestine and are missed by classic colonoscopy. The examination lasts about 10 minutes, it is not painful and it does not require anesthesia. In certain circumstances, the administration of intravenous contrast is also necessary to evaluate in more detail a change/-s in other organs in the abdominal cavity.

Why we do it?

• Early detection of colon polyps as their removal is the surest way to prevent colon cancer
• Follow-up of detected but not removed polyps
• Follow-up of patients after colon carcinoma surgery – in case of recurrence of the disease
• In patients with complaints from the colon who do not want the conventional optical colonoscopy or those in a condition that does not allow for it to be carried out (elderly patients, those after cardiac surgery, etc.)
• When the colonoscope cannot revise the entire colon due to narrowing by a tumor, adhesions, or for another medical cause.
• The method is not suitable for evaluating the treatment of colitis and diarrhea, or for the treatment of bleeding from the colon.

For the clinic

Acibadem City Clinic UMBAL Mladost is part of the largest healthcare group in Bulgaria. Our leading specialists, high end equipment and comfortable hospital base guarantee the best treatment. Our mission is to provide individualized approach to each patient for maximum efficiency and personalized care. The structure of the hospital includes a fully equipped modern Outpatient center with clinical laboratory and radiology department with the most modern digital imaging machines. The center provides access to treatment in all healthcare specialties.
Acibadem City Clinic UMBAL is one of the two hospitals in Bulgaria accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) organization – the highest global standard for quality in healthcare. The medical center at University Hospital Acibadem City Clinic Mladost offers diagnostic and outpatient treatment services in 24 specialties such as Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Neurology, Dermatology, Endocrinology, etc. Тhe Imaging diagnostics department has last generation equipment - 128 - slice computed tomography, 1.5 Tesla MRI and unique for the country 3D mammography. A modern clinical laboratory also functions in the medical center which performs all kinds of tests, including hormones and tumour markers. Cancer treatment is dealt by departments of Medical Oncology, Radiotherapy and Radiosurgery, Nuclear Medicine, Diagnostic Imaging, Clinic Pathology and Medical Genetics. Non-medical support services such as rehabilitation and psychological treatment are also available for patients and their families.
Screening tests are used in all units of the hospital for early diagnosis. The hospital has a free of charge parking lot for patients and their relatives. Disabled access is provided through comfortable entrances and exits of the building, wheelchair ramps and lifts.