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By Mayo Clinic staffYour doctor will review the results of the colonoscopy and then share the results with you.
- Negative result. A virtual colonoscopy is considered negative if the doctor doesn't find any abnormalities in the colon. If you're at average risk of colon cancer — you have no colon cancer risk factors other than age — your doctor may recommend repeating the exam in five years. Because virtual colonoscopy is still considered experimental, firm guidelines about the ideal frequency of screening haven't been established.
- Positive result. A virtual colonoscopy is considered positive if the images reveal any polyps or other abnormal tissue in the colon. Depending on the size and number of polyps, your doctor may recommend a traditional colonoscopy to obtain samples of the abnormal tissue or remove the polyps. In some cases, the traditional colonoscopy can be done the same day as the virtual colonoscopy — but you'll need someone to take you home afterward because a traditional colonoscopy is typically done under sedation.
If your doctor is concerned about the quality of the view through the scope, he or she may recommend a repeat virtual colonoscopy or another screening test.
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