WHAT IS A COLONOSCOPY?

A Colonoscopy is a procedure performed to detect abnormalities or changes in the inner lining of the colon, also known as the large intestine (colon), and the rectum. The colonoscopy procedure can help your doctor explore the cause of changes in bowel activity, evaluate symptoms of pain or rectal bleeding, find a reason for chronic constipation, weight loss or diarrhea, as well as detect early possible signs of cancer, such as colon polyps.

During a colonoscopy, a tool called a colonoscope, is inserted into the rectum. The colonoscope has a small camera attached to a flexible tube that can reach the entire length of the colon. During a colonoscopy, polyps or other abnormal tissue samples may be collected for a biopsy. If necessary, abnormal growths may be removed.

WHY GET A COLONOSCOPY?

Colonoscopies are recommended as a screening test option for people who are at increased risk of developing cancer of the colon or rectum, known as colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. This type of cancer is much easier to treat when detected early. Risk factors that may contribute to the development of colorectal cancer include:

• Age, especially if the patient is 50 or older

• Family history of colorectal polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease

• Family history of colon or rectal cancer

• Diabetes

• Obesity

• Smoking

• Poor diet

• Heavy alcohol use

• Lack of exercise or physical activity

  
  
  

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A COLONOSCOPY?

A colonoscopy is generally performed as an outpatient procedure. Before the colonoscopy begins, a light sedative will be administered through an intravenous, or IV, the line to make the patient comfortable. Vital signs will be closely monitored throughout the procedure. The patient is positioned to lie on his or her left side as the colonoscope is gently inserted into the anus. The scope will then be carefully moved into the lower portion of the large intestine and guided upward toward the lowest portion of the small intestine.

The scope will then be slowly withdrawn from the colon, and the lining of the colon is carefully examined by the physician. If necessary, the removal of polyps, or growths, for biopsy may also be conducted during the procedure. The colonoscopy procedure usually takes between 20-40 minutes to perform.

PREPARING FOR A COLONOSCOPY

Before a colonoscopy, the colon must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and comprehensive. Any residue in your colon may obscure the view of your colon and rectum during the exam. Prior to the colonoscopy, patients will be given a set of written instructions to follow. A clear liquid diet must be adhered to for about 1 to 2 days before the procedure. Some clear liquids that may be consumed during this time period include water, strained fruit juices, fat-free broth, sports drinks, gelatin and clear teas or coffees.

Patients will need to drink a special bowel cleansing solution the day before the procedure. Most medications can still be taken although some, such as aspirin or blood thinners, may require special instructions.

COLONOSCOPY RECOVERY

After the colonoscopy procedure, the patient will be kept for observation for up to 2 hours, until the sedative used for the procedure wears off. Reflexes and judgment may be impaired and driving is not permitted for 24 hours after the procedure. Some people may experience pressure, bloating and cramping in the abdomen after the procedure, but these side effects are temporary and well tolerated.

COLONOSCOPY RESULTS

Your doctor will review the results of the colonoscopy and then share the results with you.

Problems with your exam

If your doctor is concerned about the quality of the view through the scope, he or she may recommend a repeat colonoscopy or a shorter time until your next colonoscopy. If your doctor wasn't able to advance the scope through your entire colon, a barium enema or virtual colonoscopy may be recommended to examine the rest of your colon.

COMPLICATIONS FROM COLONOSCOPY

A colonoscopy is considered a safe and effective procedure, with a very little risk of complications. If complications do occur, they may include:

• Fever

• Abdominal pain

• Mild abdominal cramping

• Dizziness

• Infection

• Bleeding from the site of biopsy or tissue removal

• Perforation of the bowel wall

• Adverse reaction to the medication used during the exam

• A tear in the colon or rectum wall (perforation)

After discussing the risks of colonoscopy with you, your doctor will ask you to sign a consent form authorizing the procedure

Schedule a Colonoscopy Today!

It is estimated that between 60 and 90 percent of colon cancer deaths could be prevented if everyone over 50 had colonoscopy screenings. If you are currently scheduled for a colonoscopy, read the colonoscopy prep instructions. If you have not yet scheduled a colonoscopy, take a few moments to view some FAQs and find a treatment center near you.