Colonoscopy

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure that enables your physician to examine the lining of the colon (large bowel) for abnormalities by inserting a flexible tube that is about the thickness of your finger and slowly advancing it into the rectum and colon.

What can be expected during a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is usually well tolerated and rarely causes much pain. There is often a feeling of pressure, bloating, or cramping at times during the procedure. Your doctor may give you medication through a vein to help you relax and better tolerate any discomfort from the procedure. You will be lying on your side or on your back while the colonoscopy is advanced slowly through the large intestine. As the colonoscope is slowly withdrawn, the lining is again carefully examined. The procedure usually takes 10-60 minutes. In some cases, passage of the colonoscope through the entire colon to its junction with the small intestine cannot be achieved. The physician will decide if the limited examination is sufficient or if further examinations are necessary.

What preparation is required?

The colon must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and complete. Your physician will give you detailed instructions regarding the dietary restrictions to be followed and the cleansing routine to be used. In general, preparation consists of either consumption of a large volume of a special cleansing solution or several days of clear liqui9ds, laxatives and enemas prior to the examination. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If you do not, the procedure may have to be cancelled and repeated later.

What about my current medications?

Most medications may be continued as usual, but some medications can interfere with the preparation or the examination. It is therefore best o inform your physician of your current medications as well as any allergies to medications several days prior to the examination. It is also essential that you alert your doctor if you require antibiotics prior to undergoing dental procedures since you may need antibiotics prior to colonoscopy as well.

What happens after a Colonoscopy?

After the procedure, your physician will explain the results to you. If you have been given medications during the procedure, you will be observed until most of the effect of sedation have worn off. You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure.

You many have some cramping or bloating because of the air introduced into the colon during the examination. This should disappear quickly with passage of flatus (gas). Generally, you should b able to eat after leaving the endoscopy area, but your doctor may restrict your diet for a time.