WHAT IS A COLONOSCOPY?
A colonoscopy is a short outpatient procedure used to diagnose and treat abnormal growths of the large intestine. This procedure is considered the most
favorable screening test for colorectal cancer and polyps. A colonoscopy enables physicians to identify and remove precancerous polyps. During this outpatient procedure, the colon and rectum are examined using a long, thin flexible instrument that provides magnified views. This instrument is called a colonoscope. Colonoscopies are highly effective and often lifesaving.
WHO SHOULD HAVE A COLONOSCOPY?
Screening involves assessing otherwise healthy patients in an effort to detect colon polyps or cancer that haven’t been diagnosed. The objective of a screening program is to identify disease at its earliest stages to facilitate effective treatment. It is recommended that adults begin their routine colonoscopies starting at age 45 as part of a colorectal cancer screening program.
Patients with a family history of colon cancer, rectal cancer, or colorectal polyps may require earlier and more frequent screening colonoscopies.
A diagnostic colonoscopy may also be recommended to evaluate symptoms such as:
- Rectal bleeding
- A change in bowel habits
- Unexplained abdominal pain
- Acute or chronic anemia (low blood counts)
- Unintentional weight loss
In addition to identifying pre-cancerous polyps, a colonoscopy can be used to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis), ischemic colitis (low blood flow), infectious colitis (such as C. Difficile), diverticulitis, as well as a variety of other conditions of the colon and rectum.
A surveillance colonoscopy may also be recommended for:
- Follow-up examinations for patients who have a personal history of colon or rectal polyps or cancer
- Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Patients with certain familial hereditary conditions such as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (also known as Lynch syndrome)
WHAT IS THE COLONOSCOPY PREPARATION?
To prepare for the procedure, your doctor will inform you of any dietary changes and medication restrictions that need to be followed prior to the colonoscopy. The day prior to the procedure, patients must undergo a bowel prep to ensure thorough visualization of the bowel surface during the examination. A preparation that cleanses the bowels of stool and other residue will be prescribed by your physician. The prep may be in the form of a liquid laxative, pills, and/or an enema. It is crucial to follow your physicians instructions and complete the cleansing process as prescribed and to not eat after doing so. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to discuss them with your physician before the day of the procedure.
HOW IS A COLONOSCOPY PERFORMED?
Experienced physicians who are specially trained in this type of procedure typically perform colonoscopies. Gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, or general surgeons commonly carryout these procedures.
During the colonoscopy, most patients receive intravenous sedation to remain comfortable. The colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and advanced to the first portion of the colon. This is where the small intestine and colon meet. Any polyps or other abnormalities identified throughout the colonoscopy will be removed and/or biopsied to be sent in for analysis. Most of the time, the entire procedure takes less than 30 minutes.
WHAT IS POST-COLONOSCOPY CARE?
After the colonoscopy is completed, some patients may experience minimal discomfort such as abdominal cramping and “gas pains,” though this rapidly resolves by expelling any gas/air that was insufflated throughout the procedure. Patients often do not recall specifics of the procedure due to the type of sedation. Because medications used for sedation affect judgement and coordination for varying time periods, you must ask someone to drive you to and from the surgical center. It is important to have this individual be there to discuss the post-colonoscopy instructions with the physician and nurse prior to discharge.
Following a colonoscopy, patients often resume their regular diet. Your physician will determine when you can resume your pre-procedure medications. Most patients can resume normal activities the morning following the colonoscopy.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A COLONOSCOPY?
A colonoscopy is the recommended choice for colorectal cancer screening. The procedure allows for detection and removal of colon polyps that can develop into
cancer. Removal of these precancerous polyps can effectively prevent colon cancer from forming. Colonoscopy is also used to examine and diagnose other conditions affecting the large intestines which present with a variety of symptoms.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF COLONOSCOPY?
Colonoscopy is a highly safe procedure with few complications, occurring in fewer than 1% of patients. Uncommon risks include bleeding, perforation (a tear in the intestine), rare side effects from sedation medicines, and inability to visualize the entire colon for polyps or other conditions.
ABOUT COLON AND RECTAL SPECIALISTS
Colon and Rectal Specialists was founded in 1913. We are a group of dedicated fellowship-trained colorectal surgeons. We are experts in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. Our surgeons have all completed advanced surgical training in the treatment of these diseases in addition to full general surgical training. We are well-versed in the treatment of both benign and malignant diseases of the colon, rectum and anus and are able to perform routine screening examinations and surgically treat conditions if indicated to do so.
ABOUT C.A.R.E.S. CENTER
Colon and Rectal Endoscopy and Surgery (CARES) Center is our state-of-the-art Ambulatory Surgery Center. Our center has been accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) and has been given Medicare Deemed Status by CMS. We perform a variety of services including: screening colonoscopies, hemorrhoidectomy, abscess and fistula surgery, fissure surgery, pilonidal surgery, and surgery to treat fecal incontinence.
