Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure that lets your doctor look inside your entire large intestine. An instrument called a colonoscope, commonly called a “scope” is used for the procedure. A scope has a tiny camera attached at the end of a long, thin tube. The procedure lets your doctor visualize any abnormalities such as inflamed tissue, abnormal growths, and/ or ulcers.

Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy for a number of reasons:

• To look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum
• To look for causes of unexplained changes in bowel habits
• To evaluate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and weight loss
• Your doctor can also remove polyps from your colon during a colonoscopy

How is a colonoscopy performed?

An upper GI endoscopy is conducted at a hospital or an outpatient center.  An intravenous (IV) needle is placed in a vein in the arm through which a sedative will be given. Sedatives help patients stay relaxed and comfortable. While patients are sedated, the doctor and medical staff monitor vital signs.

You will begin the exam lying on your side on the exam table, usually with your knees drawn toward your chest.  The doctor will insert a colonoscope into your rectum.  The scope which is long enough to reach the entire length of your colon – it contains a light and a tube (channel) that allows the doctor to pump air into your colon.  The air inflates the colon, which provides a better view of the lining of the colon.  When the scope is moved or air is introduced, you may feel abdominal cramping or the urge to have a bowel movement.

The colonoscope also contains a tiny video camera at its tip.  The camera sends images to an external monitor so the doctor can study the inside of your colon.  The doctor can also insert instruments through the channel to take tissue samples (biopsies) or remove polyps or other areas of abnormal tissue.

After the exam, it takes about 20 minutes to begin to recover from the sedative.  You’ll need someone to take you home because it can take up to a day for the full effects of the sedative to wear off.  Don’t dive or go back to work for the rest of the day.

If your doctor removed a polyp during your colonoscopy, you may be advised to eat a special diet temporarily.

You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the exam, as you clear the air from your colon.  Walking may help relieve any discomfort.

You may also notice a small amount of blood with your first bowel movement after the exam.  Usually this isn’t cause for alarm.  Consult our doctor if you continue to pass blood or blood clots or if you have persistent abdominal pain or a fever of 100° F (37.8° C) or higher.