A colonoscopy is a test used to examine the walls of the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as cancer, colon polyps, ulcers, and areas of bleeding and inflammation. Colonoscopy is also used to examine the causes of changes in bowel habits and unexplained weight loss. Regular colon screenings are recommended for certain patients, according to the American College of Gastroenterology.
Age of Colonoscopy
According to the Mayo Clinic, routine colonoscopy exams should begin at 50 years of age in patients without family histories of colon cancer or colon abnormalities. Colonoscopies are then repeated every five to 10 years for patients who do not have any colon abnormalities or a family history of colorectal cancer. Colon screenings should be conducted earlier for patients with a family history of colorectal cancer and existing colon abnormalities such as inflammatory bowel disease and ulcerative colitis.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
The process of preparing for a colonoscopy involves cleaning the colon using bowel preparations known as known as bowel preps, according to ACG. The doctor prescribes bowel preps such as GoLytely and OsmoPreps for patients to take the day before the test. Patients are also placed on a clear liquid diet. Patients begin to take bowel preps and laxatives at midday the day before the colonoscopy. Patients should plan to stay near a bathroom because bowel preps cause frequent watery stools.
Day of Colonoscopy
During the colonoscopy, patients lie of their left side on an examination table, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Sedatives such as Versed and pain medication such as Demerol are administered through the intravenous route. Propofol might be used in patients who require deeper sedation. A colonoscope is inserted into the anus and slowly into the colon until it reaches the end of the colon. The scope inflates the colon with carbon dioxide to enable a clearer view of the colon. A small camera on the scope transmits images of the colon into a computer screen. The gastroenterologists slowly remove the colon as he checks for abnormalities. Polyps and other abnormalities are removed. The doctor might also take a sample of abnormal tissue for further testing.
Recovery
According to ACG, during recovery, patients stay in the hospital one to two hours after the colonoscopy in order to assess for any complications and allow the sedatives to wear off. Patients are kept comfortable and given light food and drinks. Patients should plan to have someone drive them home. Driving or operating machines are not permitted for 24 hours after a colonoscopy in order to allow the sedative time to wear off.
Complications
Patients might experience abdominal cramping and bloating caused by the carbon dioxide pumped into the stomach. Bloating and cramping are relieved by passing gas. Some patients might suffer severe complications of colonoscopy such as perforation, bleeding and infection. Complications of colonoscopy might occur several days after the colonoscopy.
