Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is a common diagnostic procedure for examining the large intestine, or colon. It’s used to identify conditions inside the colon such as polyps, ulcers, bleeding, and early signs of cancer. To learn what to expect during the procedure and to see what an actual polyp looks like, view the colonoscopy video.

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Transcript

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for consultation or specific instructions given by your doctor regarding this procedure. Always consult your doctor for diagnostic and treatment options for your specific medical condition.

Over the next few minutes, we’ll be sharing information to help you prepare for a colonoscopy.  We’ll also provide information on what to expect both during and after the procedure.

Colonoscopy is a common diagnostic procedure used to visually examine the large intestine, or colon.  A colonoscope, a long, flexible, lighted tube, is used during the procedure to view inside of the entire colon.

The large intestine, about five feet in length, has four sections; the ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, and sigmoid colon. The sigmoid colon joins the rectum and the anus, the opening where waste matter passes out of the body.

The main function of the colon is to temporarily store food waste prior to a bowel movement. The waste is released when nerves signal the muscle of the colon to contract and move the waste out through the rectum.

Colonoscopy can identify various conditions in the colon. If you have a change in bowel habits, bloody stools, abdominal discomfort, or a history of colon disease, your doctor may suggest a colonoscopy.

It’s also used to screen for colon cancer, which is among the leading causes of cancer death in the US. Generally, you should begin colonoscopy screening for colon cancer at the age of 50. So check with your doctor about having a colonoscopy done if you’ve reached this age.

Besides screening, other reasons for a colonoscopy include examination of ulcers, polyps, and pouches, called diverticula. It can also help to determine the cause of unexplained chronic diarrhea or gastrointestinal bleeding.

Colonoscopy has been shown to be a safe procedure and complications are uncommon. However, with any medical procedure, complications may occur. Possible complications include persistent bleeding after a biopsy and perforation, or puncture, of the colon.

There may be other risks depending on your medical condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to the procedure.

In preparing for a colonoscopy, be sure to discuss your complete medical history, including all medications and supplements you’re taking with your doctor. While your doctor may give you more specific instructions to prepare for a colonoscopy, the following general guidelines apply to most people.

Your colon must be completely empty of food waste for the colonoscopy to be performed. Your doctor will give you instructions for prepping, or cleaning, your bowel. You may be asked to take a laxative, undergoing an enema, use a rectal laxative suppository, or drink a special fluid to help clean out your bowel.

You may have to follow a liquid diet for a day or two prior to the procedure. In addition to the colon prep, you won’t be allowed to eat or drink after midnight before the procedure.

Based on your medical condition, your doctor may request other specific preparation. Be sure to follow your doctor’s directions completely. Always ask questions if you don’t understand the instructions.

After changing into a hospital gown, an I.V. will be started in your arm or hand, and you’ll be given a sedative that will help you to relax and stay comfortable during the procedure.

You'll be positioned on your left side with your knees bent towards your chest. The lubricated colonoscope will be slowly inserted into your rectum and advanced into your colon.

This may cause mild pain or cramping, but the sedative should releave any discomfort.  During tube insertion, taking deep breaths can help to make you more comfortable.

In addition to allowing the doctor to see inside the colon, the colonoscope provides access to perform biopsies and minor surgery on the bowel. Air may be blown through the scope into the bowel to inflate it, thereby providing a better view.

The doctor will examine the bowel's interior by watching images transmitted from the colonoscope onto a video monitor.

During the procedure, your blood pressure, pulse, and oxygen levels will be monitored.

If a polyp is seen, it may be removed by using very small instruments through the colonoscope. Polyps are abnormal growths in the lining of your colon and are generally not cancerous. However, polyps can become cancerous if they are not found and removed.  Once removed, the polyps are sent to the lab for analysis.

Your doctor may also perform a biopsy of other abnormal tissue. A laser, heat probe, or medications can also be passed through the colonoscope to stop any bleeding that may occur after a polyp was removed or a biopsy was performed.

After your doctor has completed a thorough examination of your colon, the colonoscope will be removed. You’ll be observed in a recovery area until the sedation has worn off and you are fully awake.

Before you go home, you’ll receive instructions about what to eat and drink for the next day or so. You may be encouraged to drink extra fluids to make up for the water lost during the preparation. You should avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours.

One other thing, arrange to have have someone pick you up after the procedure.  Because of the lingering effects of the sedation, you won't be allowed to drive.

Be sure to ask when to re-start any medications that were withheld for the procedure.  Depending on your particular situation, you may receive additional or different instructions after your colonoscopy.
 

Your doctor will discuss the results of your colonoscopy and any further recommendations with you.

After the colonoscopy, reward yourself for taking an important step toward better health. Having a colonoscopy can help to prevent colorectal cancer from occurring.

Health screening and testing take time and may be inconvenient for those with already busy lives, but taking an active role in maintaining your health will benefit you in the long run.