What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure, performed by a specially-trained physician, during which a colonoscope is used to look inside the colon. The colonoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny video camera and a light, which the physician uses to examine the colon. Colon cancer is the third-most common cancer in the United States, but it is also one of the most potentially curable cancers, if diagnosed at an early stage. A colonoscopy is a test routinely done for the screening of colon cancer.

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure, performed by a specially-trained physician, during which a colonoscope is used to look inside the colon. The colonoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny video camera and a light, which the physician uses to examine the colon. Colon cancer is the third-most common cancer in the United States, but it is also one of the most potentially curable cancers, if diagnosed at an early stage. A colonoscopy is a test routinely done for the screening of colon cancer.

Who should have a Colonoscopy?

Men and women starting at age 50 with average risk for developing colorectal cancer should have a screening colonoscopy, which can be lifesaving and is usually reimbursed by most insurance companies. Those experiencing the following symptoms should also be screened as soon as possible:
  • Blood loss
  • Abdominal or rectal pain
  • Changes in bowel habits, such as chronic diarrhea or progressive constipation
  • Abnormalities detected by other studies, such as an inflamed colon
  • Family history of colon polyps or cancer
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Hemorrhoids

What preparation is required?

At the time of scheduling, patients will receive specific instructions with information on how to prepare, what products to use and what to expect. This information breaks down the instructions for each day proceeding the procedure.

What can you expect during a Colonoscopy?

An intravenous line, or IV, is placed to give the patient sedative medication. The gastroenterologist guides the colonoscope through the colon looking for polyps, signs of bleeding, inflammation or other abnormalities. If the gastroenterologist finds polyps, or small growths inside the colon or rectum, they may be removed during the colonoscopy. The polyps are then analyzed in a laboratory for signs of cancer. The procedure takes approximately 15 – 30 minutes, however, the time may vary depending in part on what is found during the procedure. Patients should plan to be on site approximately 60 – 90 minutes with preparation and recovery time.

 What happens after a Colonoscopy?

The patient will be cared for in a recovery area until most of the effects of the medication have worn off. At this time, the doctor will discuss the results of the colonoscopy and provide any additional information needed. The patient must have someone available to transport them home, because the medications used during the procedure will not allow them to drive on their own.

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