Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inside of your colon (large intestine) and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera called a colonoscope. It's one of the most effective ways to screen for colorectal cancer and can also diagnose and treat other conditions.

Colonoscopy can detect polyps (precancerous growths) and early-stage cancers when they're most treatable. During the procedure, polyps can often be removed, preventing them from becoming cancer. Regular colonoscopies are recommended for adults starting at age 45-50.

Colonoscopy is used for:

Screening:

• Detect colorectal cancer early
• Find and remove polyps
• Prevent cancer
• Recommended for adults 45-50+

Diagnosis:

• Investigate symptoms (bleeding, pain, changes in bowel habits)
• Diagnose inflammatory bowel disease
• Find cause of anemia
• Evaluate other conditions

Treatment:

• Remove polyps
• Stop bleeding
• Remove foreign objects
• Other treatments

Bowel Preparation (very important):

1. Diet Changes (1-3 days before):

   • Clear liquid diet day before
   • No solid foods
   • Avoid red or purple liquids
   • Follow specific instructions

2. Bowel Cleansing:

   • Laxative solution (prescribed)
   • Drink large amount of solution
   • Causes diarrhea to clean colon
   • Must complete entire preparation
   • Colon must be completely clean

3. Medications:

   • May need to adjust medications
   • Especially blood thinners
   • Discuss with doctor
   • Follow specific instructions

4. Day Before:

   • Clear liquids only
   • Start bowel prep
   • Stay near bathroom
   • Complete entire prep

Important: Preparation is crucial. If colon isn't clean, procedure may need to be repeated.

Before the Procedure:

• Arrive at facility
• Change into gown
• IV started
• Sedation given (usually)

During the Procedure:

• Lie on side
• Sedated (usually asleep)
• Colonoscope inserted through rectum
• Air may be pumped in to expand colon
• Doctor examines entire colon
• Procedure usually takes 30-60 minutes
• Usually no pain (sedated)

After the Procedure:

• Recover from sedation (1-2 hours)
• May feel bloated or gassy
• Can usually go home same day
• Need someone to drive you home
• Can resume normal activities next day

Results:

• Doctor may discuss findings immediately
• Biopsy results take few days
• Follow-up appointment scheduled
• Next screening date determined

Normal Results:

• No polyps or abnormalities found
• Continue regular screening
• Usually every 10 years if normal
• May vary based on findings

Abnormal Findings:

• Polyps: May be removed during procedure
  • Small polyps: Usually benign
  • Larger polyps: May need closer monitoring
  • Removed polyps sent for testing
• Cancer: If found, further treatment needed
• Other findings: Discussed with doctor

Follow-up:

• Depends on findings
• If polyps found: More frequent screening
• If normal: Usually 10 years
• Doctor will recommend schedule

Colonoscopy is generally very safe:

• Low risk of complications
• Performed by trained specialists
• Sedation monitored closely
• Rare complications possible

Possible Complications (rare):

• Bleeding (especially if polyps removed)
• Perforation (tear in colon wall)
• Reaction to sedation
• Other rare complications

Benefits far outweigh risks for screening.

• Severe abdominal pain after procedure
• Heavy rectal bleeding
• Signs of infection (fever, severe pain)
• Severe symptoms

• Questions about results
• Concerns after procedure
• Need for follow-up
• Questions about preparation
• Concerns about findings

• Review results with doctor
• Schedule next screening
• Follow recommendations
• Continue regular screening

General Recommendations:

• Age 45-50: Start screening
• Average risk: Every 10 years (if normal)
• Higher risk: More frequent
• Age 75-85: Individual decision
• Age 85+: Usually not recommended

High-Risk Factors:

• Family history of colorectal cancer
• Personal history of polyps or cancer
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Genetic syndromes
• May need earlier, more frequent screening

Most people are sedated and don't feel anything during the procedure. You may feel some bloating or gas afterward, but this usually passes quickly.

The actual procedure usually takes 30-60 minutes. However, you'll need time for preparation before, recovery after, and the entire process takes several hours.

If polyps are found, they're usually removed during the procedure. If cancer is found, your doctor will discuss next steps. Most findings are not cancer.

If your colonoscopy is normal, usually every 10 years. If polyps are found, you may need more frequent screening. Your doctor will recommend based on your findings.

No. You'll need to follow a clear liquid diet the day before and complete bowel preparation. This is necessary for the doctor to see clearly during the procedure.