Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is a safe and effective method of examining the entire lining of the colon and rectum, using a long, flexible tubular instrument.
What is colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a safe and effective method of examining the entire lining of the colon and rectum, using a long, flexible tubular instrument. It is used to diagnose problems of the colon and rectum, and to perform biopsies and remove colon polyps. Most colonoscopies are done on an outpatient basis with minimal discomfort and inconvenience.
Who should have a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is routinely recommended for adults age 50 and older as part of the colorectal cancer screening program. Patients with a family history of colon or rectal cancer can have colonoscopy in their 40s. Your doctor may also recommend a colonoscopy if there are changes in bowel habits or bleeding that indicate a possible problem in the colon or rectum.
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Colonoscopy may be needed to:
Review unexplained abdominal symptoms
Check for inflammatory bowel disease (colitis)
Check for localized polyps or tumors with a barium enema x-ray exam.
Examine patients with positive stool blood test results.
Monitor patients with a personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps.
How is colonoscopy performed?
Before the colonoscopy, the intestine must be completely cleaned of all debris. This is done a day or two before the exam with a medicine prescribed by the doctor.
Many patients are given intravenous sedation, or "twilight sleep" to perform this procedure. The colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and advanced to the part of the colon where it meets the small intestine. During a complete bowel exam, the doctor removes polyps or takes biopsies as needed.
What are the benefits of colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is more accurate than a radiological examination of the colon in detecting polyps or cancer in the early stages. With colonoscopy, it is now possible to detect and remove most polyps without abdominal surgery. Polyp removal is an important step in colon cancer prevention.