What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure where a long, flexible tube called a “scope” is inserted into the rectum and guided through the colon (large intestine). This tube has a light and camera on its end, allowing the specialist to view the inner lining of the colon. Colonoscopies are used to diagnose issues like diarrhea, bleeding, abdominal pain, or unusual x-ray results.
Colonoscopies are also performed on individuals starting at age 45 or earlier, depending on medical history, to screen for colon cancer and polyps. This is currently the only method for preventing colorectal cancer. The experienced gastroenterologists at Gastroenterology Consultants specialize in performing colonoscopies. For more information, contact our practice in Houston, TX office.
What are the benefits of a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy exams are a critical tool in the fight against colon cancer, especially for those over 45 or at increased risk. Regular colonoscopy screenings offer several key benefits for maintaining gastrointestinal and overall health, including:
- Early detection of colon and rectal cancer
- Identification and removal of abnormal growths
- Diagnosis of conditions like diverticulosis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Providing the most effective screening method for colon and rectal cancer
- Potentially saving lives
Thanks to modern technology, these screenings are now more efficient, comfortable, and precise than ever before.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
Before your colonoscopy, your specialist at Gastroenterology Consultants will provide detailed instructions for bowel preparation. Typically, patients must follow a clear liquid diet the day before the procedure. Various laxative options will be recommended to ensure the colon is thoroughly cleaned. It is crucial to adhere strictly to your specialist’s instructions.
You will also receive specific guidelines regarding your medications. Generally, you can continue your usual medications, but if you are on blood thinners (e.g., Coumadin, warfarin, Plavix, aspirin, anti-inflammatories) or are diabetic, you will receive special instructions. You should not consume anything by mouth after midnight, except for your prescribed medications.
On the day of your colonoscopy, you will need to arrive at the endoscopy center 1 to 1.5 hours before the exam to complete the paperwork and prepare for the procedure. You will change into a medical gown, and an intravenous (IV) catheter will be inserted into your arm to administer sedation. Monitoring equipment will be used to track your heart rate, blood pressure, pulse, electrocardiogram, breathing, and oxygen levels throughout and after the exam.
In the exam room, you will lie on your left side on a stretcher, and the IV sedation will begin. Small, individualized doses of sedation will be administered to ensure your safety and comfort. Once you are adequately sedated, the specialist will perform a rectal exam, followed by the gentle insertion of the colonoscope into the rectum. The scope will be advanced through the colon to where it meets the small intestine. Air will be introduced through the scope to improve visibility, and any remaining fluid can be washed out and suctioned through the scope.
During the procedure, which typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes, the specialist can perform various tasks based on the findings, such as biopsies, polyp removal, and controlling bleeding. At the end of the exam, as much air and residual fluid as possible will be suctioned out of the colon through the scope.
When will I get my results?
Once your colonoscopy is finished, you will be moved to a recovery area to be monitored as the sedation wears off. The amount of time it takes for you to wake up will depend on the dosage of sedation and your individual response, but most patients are ready for discharge within 45 to 60 minutes.
You will need someone to drive you home, as you will not be allowed to drive for the rest of the day. Additionally, you should avoid work, signing important documents, or doing any strenuous activities for the remainder of the day. While most patients can resume eating and drinking normally after leaving the endoscopy unit, you will receive specific instructions about activities, diet, and medications before you are discharged.
Your specialist or nurse will discuss the procedure’s findings with you after the exam. Since sedation may affect your memory, it is a good idea to bring someone with you to help you remember the information. You will also be given a written report to take home. If any biopsies were taken, you would be notified of the results within about a week.
Are there other options to a colonoscopy?
Alternatives to a colonoscopy depend on the reason for needing the examination. In most cases, a colonoscopy is the best way to evaluate and treat colon abnormalities and is the only preventive method for colorectal cancer. However, there are other diagnostic options, such as barium enemas and virtual CT scans. These methods can help visualize the colon but are limited to diagnosis only. Any treatment required for abnormalities will still necessitate a colonoscopy or surgery.
Are there any risks with a colonoscopy?
While a colonoscopy is generally a safe procedure, it does come with some risks. Complications are rare, occurring in less than 1% of patients, and most are not life-threatening. However, some complications may require hospitalization and surgery. Before the procedure, a consent form will be reviewed by the nursing staff, and any questions or concerns can be discussed with your specialist.
Medication reactions associated with sedation can occur. These reactions can include allergic responses, difficulty breathing, effects on heart rate and blood pressure, and irritation at the IV site.
Bleeding can occur, particularly if biopsies are taken, or polyps are removed. Significant bleeding requiring a blood transfusion or hospitalization is very rare, but it can happen during the procedure or up to two weeks afterward if a polyp is removed.
Perforation or puncture of the colon is a risk. This may be recognized during the exam or later in the day. Most perforations will require surgery and hospitalization. This is an uncommon complication, even with polyp removal.
It is crucial to contact your specialist immediately if you experience symptoms such as increasing abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever after the procedure.
Like any medical test, a colonoscopy is not perfect. There is a small chance that abnormalities, including polyps and cancers, may be missed. It is important to follow up with your specialist at Gastroenterology Consultants as instructed and report any new or persistent symptoms.
Colonoscopy FAQs
When should you undergo a colonoscopy?
We suggest people of standard risk for colon cancer begin colonoscopy screenings when they turn 45. However, if your risks for colon cancer are greater or if you are showing symptoms of colon cancer, our gastroenterologists might advise having a colonoscopy even before the recommended age.
How often should you have a colonoscopy?
Gastroenterologists suggest receiving colonoscopies every ten years for patients of normal risk, who are in good health, and who have colonoscopy results within normal limits. After your colonoscopy, your gastroenterologist will explain how often you should undergo colon cancer screenings moving forward.
Are colonoscopies uncomfortable?
Sedation is provided before a colonoscopy exam to maximize your comfort while undergoing the procedure. Depending on the type of sedation, you may reach an extremely calm state or even feel drowsy. Many individuals have virtually no recollection of the exam process. Talk with your gastroenterologist about what you can expect during a colonoscopy at your consultation visit.
What is the recovery period following a colonoscopy?
Generally, it takes around 24 hours to recuperate after a colonoscopy screening, and many patients feel well enough to resume their regular routine the following day. When polyps are removed, recovery will likely take longer. It is normal to have gastrointestinal discomfort following a colonoscopy, including cramping and/or bloating. Our Gastroenterology Consultants team will provide further details on what to expect during the recovery period.
