Speedier bowel imaging launches at North Tyneside General Hospital thanks to pilot

Patients are now benefitting from an improved experience when undergoing bowel investigations thanks to a new same or next-day CT colonography pilot. The new service enables eligible patients to receive a follow-up scan within 24 hours of an incomplete colonoscopy—reducing waiting times, avoiding repeat bowel preparation and delivering quicker reassurance at what can be an anxious time.

CT colonography, often called a ‘virtual colonoscopy’, is a minimally invasive imaging test that uses CT scans and advanced computer software to create detailed 2D and 3D images of the large bowel (colon and rectum). It is used to detect and diagnose conditions such as polyps, cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease.

The test is usually recommended when a conventional colonoscopy is incomplete, either due to difficult anatomy, patient tolerance or when it’s not possible to fully visualise the bowel.

The same/next-day CT colonography initiative is a collaborative programme delivered by our endoscopy and radiology teams.

Michael Bayley, from North Tyneside, was one of the first patients to benefit from the pilot. He said: "I had my colonoscopy at Wansbeck General Hospital, but I ended up needing a CT colonography at North Tyneside the next day. From the moment I arrived, the staff at both hospitals made me feel welcome and supported. The radiographers explained everything in detail and put me completely at ease. Learning that I could have the second scan the very next day relieved so much stress—I didn’t have to wait or go through bowel prep again."

The launch of this pilot aligns with the National Cancer Plan for England, which aims to improve cancer outcomes so that three in four people diagnosed survive for five years or more by 2035. Early diagnosis is a key part of this plan.

Liz Robinson, lead colorectal clinical endoscopist at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We are thrilled to launch this pilot. Offering same- or next-day scans has been a goal for over a year, and it’s a huge achievement to see it come to life. Previously, patients could wait 7 to14 days for a follow-up scan, and having to repeat bowel prep is unpleasant. This service removes that burden. It’s also a fantastic example of collaboration between our endoscopy and radiology teams."

Mohamed Abdelkarim, consultant radiologist, said: "Developing this streamlined pathway jointly with lead CT radiographer Greg Telfer and Liz Robinson have been a great example of what can be achieved when radiology and endoscopy teams work closely together. It helps us reach a diagnosis faster, reduces delays in care and improves the overall patient experience."

If the pilot proves successful, the service could be expanded across the trust, offering faster, more comfortable care for more patients.

Media contact 

Emily Lavin, marketing and communications office 

emily.lavin@northumbria-healthcare.nhs.uk