Preparation
Colonoscopy is a procedure that that allows a physician to use a lighted, flexible tube, known as a colonoscope, to view the interior of the rectum and large intestine (colon) and look for abnormalities that could lead to colon cancer or other conditions. During this procedure, the doctor can take tissue samples in any areas that look suspicious and remove growths (polyps) for testing, if any are found.
In order for the doctor to see clearly and perform these procedures with accuracy, the colon must be completely clean and empty. The doctor who performs the colonoscopy, most often a gastroenterologist, will provide detailed, written instructions for prepping the bowel. You will have to follow a clear liquid diet for at least one day prior to the procedure. In addition, you will most likely be asked to take laxatives for a period of time, and perform an enema treatment the night before your colonoscopy.
Procedure
You will wear a hospital gown, open in the back, and have a blanket to cover you during your colonoscopy. You may be given intravenous benzodiazepine, a mild sedative, also known as a conscious sedative, alone or in combination with a narcotic. Because the pros and cons of sedation for colonoscopy are often debated, your physician may discuss the possibility of performing the procedure without sedation.
While you are laying on your left side on an examination table, the doctor generally performs a manual rectal exam and then gently inserts a lubricated colonoscope through your rectum and into your colon. The doctor maneuvers the scope and views the walls of the intestine with images that are projected onto a nearby television-type screen. You may be able to view the procedure yourself. If necessary, the doctor can also pass biopsy tools and other surgical instruments through the scope to perform additional procedures. A routine colonoscopy takes about 30 minutes but may take longer if additional procedures are necessary. Throughout the procedure, your blood pressure, pulse and other vital signs are monitored.
After the Procedure
Normally, you will stay in the doctor's office until the effects of sedative medication wear off. You will not be able to drive, so you must arrange to be picked up by an adult friend or family member who can take you home. You will be given instructions to relax for the rest of the day, along with any information you need about eating, drinking and resuming normal activities.
Complications from a colonoscopy, such as perforation of the colon wall, bleeding or adverse reaction to sedative mediation, are rare and more likely to occur if a patient is oversedated, requires general anesthesia or undergoes additional procedures, such as polyps removal. You may experience minor side effects, such as gas, stomach distention (bloating) or mild cramps for up to 24 hours after the procedure. If you have any concerns after a colonoscopy procedure, call your doctor.
