What is a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a simple procedure that is performed comfortably with sedation. The procedure provides significant information for which treatment can often be given. Serious complications rarely occur as a result of this procedure. Overall, you should plan on spending about 3 hours in our facility to undergo this procedure.
The term "colonoscopy" means looking inside the colon. The colon, or large bowel, is the last portion of your digestive or GI tract. Its main function is to store unabsorbed food products prior to their elimination.
The procedure is performed using a colonoscope. By adjusting the various controls on the colonoscope, the gastroenterologist can safely maneuver the instrument to carefully examine the inside lining of the colon. The colonoscope contains a channel that allows instruments to be passed in order to take tissue or stool samples, remove polyps, and provide other therapy.
At present, colonoscopy is the most accurate and effective way to detect cancer of the colon. In addition, colonoscopy can identify and remove colon polyps — abnormal growths on the inside lining of the intestine. By identifying and removing polyps (which may develop into cancer over years), colonoscopy likely prevents many cancers from forming. Colonoscopy is used also to evaluate symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloody bowel movements, altered bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea, and weight loss.
Preparing for Your Procedure
How do I prepare for the procedure?
First, if your doctor has not already reviewed them, bring any x-rays or other tests you have undergone. Please be sure to give your doctor a complete list of all the medicines you are taking and any allergies you have to drugs or other substances. In particular, alert your physician if you are taking aspirin products, arthritis medications such as ibuprofen, anticoagulants (blood thinners), diabetic medication, or iron products.
The preparation is a critical step of this procedure. It is necessary to thoroughly clean out the colon. One very important step is that you should not eat or drink within six hours of your procedure.
What happens when I arrive at the Endoscopy Unit?
A detailed medical history will be obtained by the medical staff and you'll be asked to sign a consent form. After signing, you will be taken to the procedure room and be connected to monitors that will measure your heart rate, blood pressure, and the oxygenation levels of your blood throughout the procedure. The procedure is typically done with sedation.
During & After Your Colonoscopy
What can be done during my Colonoscopy?
In some cases, it may be necessary to take a sample of tissue, called a biopsy, for later examination under the microscope. As endoscopic technology has advanced, many techniques are now performed through the colonoscope that previously required an operation. Bleeding lesions can be cauterized with electricity or heat. Foreign bodies inserted into the rectum may be removed as well, avoiding surgery.
What are the risks associated with a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy has been shown to be a safe procedure through years of experience. However, no medical procedure is completely risk free. Complications, though rare, can occur. During the procedure, the major risks are perforation (a puncture of the intestinal wall), which could require surgical repair, and bleeding, which could require transfusion. These risks are slightly increased if a polyp is removed via snare technique. Again, all of these complications are quite unlikely.
What can I expect after my Colonoscopy?
When your colonoscopy is completed you'll be cared for in a recovery area until most of the effects of the medication have worn off. You may have some cramping or bloating, but this should quickly resolve. You will be able to eat when you wake up, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Your doctor will inform you about the results of the procedure and provide any additional information you need to know.
By the time you're ready to go home, you should feel stronger and more alert. Nevertheless, you should plan on resting for the remainder of the day. This means not driving, so you'll need to have a family member or friend take you home.
What symptoms should I look for after my procedure that I need to contact the doctor for?
Occasionally, minor problems may persist, such as bloating or cramping; these should disappear over a few hours or less. Should you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, bloody bowel movements, or extreme dizziness/weakness, please contact your physician regarding these symptoms. Early recognition of possible complications is important.