What is a Colonoscopy?
- A colonoscopy is a test using a scope and video that lets your doctor examine the lining of
your colon and rectum.
- Colonoscopy can detect polyps (growths on the lining of the colon or rectum) and early cancers.
- Removal of polyps, which generally can be performed during colonoscopy, can prevent colorectal
cancer.
- Starting at age 50, everyone should have some form of screening for colorectal cancer. Talk
to your doctor about what test is best for you.
Pre-procedure preparation for a colonoscopy
- The colon must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and complete
- Follow your doctor’s detailed instructions for dietary restrictions and bowel cleansing
routine prior to your procedure
- You may drink small amounts of clear liquids up to two hours before your scheduled procedure
- Do not drink any alcoholic beverages for 24 hours before or after the procedure
- Do not use tobacco products for 24 hours before or after the procedure
- Arrive one hour before your scheduled procedure time. Bring your Medicare/Insurance cards with you
- Register at the registration desk outside the Emergency Department
- Bring someone to drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours after the procedure. If you so
not have a driver, your procedure may have to be cancelled.
- A nurse from Ambulatory Care will call you prior to the procedure to review your health history,
to review your current medications and advise you on what medication to take on the morning of
the procedure and to answer any questions you may have.
What to expect during and after the procedure
- The nurse will review your health history, your current health status and your blood pressure
and cardiac rhythm
- An intravenous needle will be placed in your arm to give you medication during the procedure
to make you sleepy and relaxed
- You will be asked to lie on your left side during the procedure
- The doctor inserts the scope through your rectum. You may experience some cramping or bloating
during the procedure due to the air the doctor is putting into your colon
- A biopsy (tiny bit of tissue) can be taken during the procedure for microscopic exam
- If you have a polyp, it can be removed during the colonoscopy for microscopic exam
- If a biopsy is taken or a polyp removed, the results of the microscopic exam can be reviewed
with your physician. He usually has those results in 3 to 5 days.
- Many people do not recall any of the procedure because of the effect of the medication. You will
probably feel drowsy or sleepy for several hours. You will stay at the hospital until most of the
effect of the medication has worn off. You will then be released to go home. You must have a driver.
You will not be permitted to drive.
- You may have some cramping or bloating because of the air introduced into the colon during the
examination. This should feel better as you pass "gas".
- The doctor will review his findings with you and your family or friend before you leave the
hospital and you will be given written instructions.