Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a standard medical procedure used to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal tract conditions, particularly those affecting the large intestine (rectum, colon, and anus) and a portion of the small intestine (the ileum). It is the most effective and widely accepted screening tool for identifying colorectal cancer, the third most common cancer, and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Individuals over the age of 50 are recommended to undergo colorectal cancer screening at least every ten years.

During the colonoscopy, the physician uses a hand-held small flexible tube with a tiny high-definition camera on the tip called the colonoscope. The colonoscope also has small channels allowing special equipment and fluids to pass through and LED lights to illuminate the colon. The colonoscope will be inserted into the patient's anus and slowly advanced from the rectum through the length of the colon. The colonoscope allows the physician to visualize the entire colon in real time to identify abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, infections, or cancer. The physician can perform a biopsy or remove abnormal tissue during the colonoscopy if abnormalities are detected.

Before the procedure, patients should expect to undergo bowel preparation, including taking certain medications to increase bowel movements and following a low-residue or clear liquid diet for one to two days. Bowel preparation ensures that stool and other digestive material will not obstruct the physician's view of the inside of the colon during the colonoscopy and prevent complications like bowel perforation. Your doctor will provide exact details for the bowel preparation method they prefer.

Patients should expect to be under mild sedation during the procedure, which an anesthesiologist administers. Proper sedation will ensure that patients are comfortable and minimize any movement to avoid the risk of complications. Colonoscopies are generally well-tolerated and carry minimal risks, including rectal tears, bleeding, pain, bloating, and infection.

After the procedure, your physician will send any biopsies or collected tissue to a laboratory for further examination. Once results are received, they will be reviewed with the patient, and your physician will make recommendations about any further necessary treatment or follow-up colonoscopy procedures for re-evaluation, surveillance, or treatment.