Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure that is performed to see inside the colon and rectum, two main parts of the large intestine. Colonoscopies are used to look for early signs of colorectal cancer and diagnose unexplained symptoms like abdominal pain, bleeding from the anus, and weight loss.

Colonoscopies help us detect polyps, ulcers, tumors, and areas of inflammation or bleeding. A thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope is used to look at the colon during a colonoscopy. Colonoscopes are 48 to 72 inches long. A small camera is attached to the colonoscope, so we can take photos or videos of the colon.

How to Prepare

In order to prepare for a colonoscopy, you should empty solids from the gastrointestinal tract by following a clear liquid diet for one to three days. If the colon retains solid or opaque matter, the colonoscopy will be prolonged and its effectiveness will be reduced.

What to Expect

To perform a colonoscopy, the doctor will have you lie on your left side on the examination table. A light sedative and pain medication are likely to keep you in a relaxed state, although deeper sedation may be necessary in some cases. Our staff will strive to make you feel as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure.

The colonoscope will be inserted into the anus and then guided through the rectum and into the colon. The colonoscope will inflate the large intestine with carbon dioxide gas in order to give the doctor a better view of the intestinal lining. The images from the camera mounted on the colonoscope will be relayed to an external monitor. The doctor can remove polyps and take samples of abnormal tissue during the procedure.

Colonscopies usually take from around 30 minutes to 60 minutes. You may experience cramping or bloating after the procedure, and you may need to remain in the clinic for an hour or two afterwards. You should be fully recovered and ready to resume normal activities by the following day.