FAQs Frequently asked questions about colonoscopy
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to examine your large digestive tract. It consists of a thin, flexible tube that has a light and camera on the inner side allowing your doctor to view the lining of your large intestine and rectum.
Why do I need a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a recommended screening procedure in all people at a certain age to evaluate for the possibility that you may have colon polyps and/or colon cancer. Colon polyps and early stages of colon cancer have no symptoms. A colonoscope is used to detect and remove colon polyps and early stages of colon cancer before you may require surgery! It is a lifesaver.
It is generally recommended in everyone over the age of 45 years of age. It is done sooner if
1. You have a family history of colon cancer 2. You have a family history of colon polyps 3. You have inflammatory bowel disease 4. You are having rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, chronic diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain.
A colonoscopy is also used to evaluate a person who is having symptoms. Symptoms can include change in bowel habits, chronic diarrhea or constipation, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain.
Does a colonoscopy hurt?
A colonoscopy is a well-tolerated procedure. You will be given a medication to allow you to fall asleep for the procedure. It is NOT a general anesthetic but, it is strong enough that you will be asleep and feel no pain.
You will be lying on your left side. The procedure typically takes 20-30 minutes depending on if polyps need to be removed. Occasionally, it is impossible to reach the end of the large intestine and you will be advised if additional testing is needed.
How long does a colonoscopy take?
A colonoscopy takes approximately 20-30 minutes. It may take longer if you have a very curvy intestine or if you have polyps that need to be removed.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
The preparation for a colonoscopy is the hardest part of the test. The week before, you will be asked to abstain from seeds and skins that may affect visualization of your intestine. The day before the procedure, you will not be able to eat any solid food. You will need to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day into the next day. You will need to take two doses of a laxative that will clean out your entire tract. The first dose you will take at 4-5pm the day before. The second dose you will take in the morning 4 hours before your planned colonoscopy.
What happens after the colonoscopy?
After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short period of time until most of the effects of the sedative has worn off. You may experience mild cramping or bloating until you pass out the gas that was introduced into your colon during the exam. This will pass quickly. You will then be able to go home with someone who can drive you home.
When can I eat?
You can eat as soon as you are discharged from the office. We ask you to start out on the light side only because you would have been fasting for about 24 hours. Light foods include eggs, toast, soup, rice, sandwich, etc.
What are the possible complications of a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy and polypectomy are generally safe procedures when performed by doctors who have special training and continued experience. Dr. Galizi has been in practice since 1995 and literally does 100’s of these procedures a year. The risks include the risk of perforation and the risk of bleeding at a biopsy or polypectomy site. These risks are rare. Bleeding can usually be stopped through the colonoscope with a variety of techniques before you leave the office. Perforation may require surgery. Some patients may have a reaction to the sedative or can drop their heart rate or breathing related to the sedative and underlying heart or lung problems. The sedative is given in small doses throughout the procedure because you may not need much. You will be monitored closely with a blood pressure cuff, cardiac leads and pulse oximeter to measure your oxygen.