Colonoscopy

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows your provider to examine the inside of your colon (large intestine), diagnose the cause of your symptoms, and treat the underlying problem.

During a colonoscopy, your provider uses a long, flexible scope. The scope contains lighting and a video camera that sends magnified images to a monitor. If they find problems during the visual exam, they guide surgical instruments through the colonoscope and take care of the problem.

When would I need a colonoscopy?

You need a colonoscopy under two circumstances:

Diagnose and treat the cause of symptoms

You may need a colonoscopy to diagnose the cause of symptoms such as:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Rectal bleeding
• Excessive gas and bloating

During a diagnostic colonoscopy, your provider may identify many possible conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, and colon blockages.

Screen for colon cancer

Your provider performs a screening colonoscopy before you have symptoms. When you have a screening colonoscopy, they find and remove polyps in your colon. 

Since colon cancer begins in polyps, removing them prevents cancer from developing. It also treats the disease if the polyp already has cancerous cells.

How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?

Your colon must be clean for your provider to examine the tissues. They give you the information you need for cleansing your colon. The process usually includes laxatives and avoiding solid foods for a short time.

Since you can’t eat or drink on the day of your colonoscopy, you can prevent dehydration by drinking clear, fat-free broth, gelatin, or strained fruit juice the day before.

What happens during a colonoscopy?

You receive intravenous sedation shortly before your colonoscopy. The medication allows you to relax and ensures your comfort, but you stay awake throughout the procedure.

Your provider inserts the lubricated colonoscope through your rectum and gently guides it through your colon. They go through the entire colon, examining the lining along the way, and then re-examine the colon wall and treat problems as they withdraw the scope. 

The time it takes depends on whether you need treatments during the colonoscopy. However, most procedures take about 30 minutes. Afterward, you relax in the recovery room, and your provider talks with you about the results after your medication wears off.

If you need a diagnostic or screening colonoscopy, call G.I. Medicine Associates, P.C.