Colonoscopy

During a colonoscopy, a flexible, thin lighted tube called a colonoscope is inserted into the rectum. This allows the physician to look inside the entire large intestine (also known as the colon). This procedure may be performed to see things such as inflamed tissue, abnormal growths and ulcers. It allows the physician to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum, or to look for causes of unexplained changes in bowel habits, or to evaluate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and weight loss.

PATIENTS

Overview

During the procedure

A colonoscopy is a non-invasive procedure. You will be given pain medication or a sedative. The doctor will insert a colonoscope into your rectum and into your colon (large intestine).

Depending on what your doctors finds, he or she may perform other procedures such as removing a polyp (a growth in the bowel) to test for cancer. Or your doctor may remove a tissue sample (biopsy) to test for other colon diseases. If bleeding is occurring in the colon, your doctor can use a tool to stop the bleeding.

Are there any risks to a colonoscopy?

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and you should talk to your doctor about what they are. Your doctor will be able to explain the risks and answer any questions you may have.

Potential complications may include but are not limited to: bleeding and puncture of the colon.

Recovery period for a colonoscopy

Recovery times may vary, depending on the disease being treated. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. You should be able to go home the same day.

References

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), Colonoscopy. http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/colonoscopy/index/htm accessed 1/08/07, Updated November 2005. Pub#06-4331

Image Gallery

Illustration of the WallFlex® Colonic Stent in the colon.