Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is an important procedure that lets doctors see the inside of your large intestine (colon). This procedure uses a flexible tube with a camera at the end in order to provide a clear look at your gastrointestinal tract. The doctor will gently pass the tube through the patient's rectum and throughout the colon, taking photos, retrieving samples or cutting away abnormal growths. This helps us get a detailed look at your colon on a monitor, helping them spot things like polyps, tumors, inflammation and sources of bleeding.
Why Undergo a Colonoscopy?
- Colon Cancer Screening: Finding and preventing colon cancer by catching polyps before they turn into cancer.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Understanding the source of unexplained bleeding.
- Persistent Diarrhea: Checking out chronic or unexplained diarrhea.
- Abdominal Pain: Investigating causes of ongoing abdominal pain.
- Follow-up: Monitoring previously detected polyps, tumors, or other issues.
Colonoscopy Procedure Overview
Sedation: You’ll get an IV sedative to help you relax and feel comfortable. You’ll lie on your left side during the procedure.
Colonoscope Insertion: The doctor will gently insert the colonoscope through your rectum and guide it through your colon. Air is used to expand the colon for better visibility.
Examination and Treatment: The doctor will look at the colon lining on the monitor. If they find polyps or abnormal tissues, they might remove or biopsy them for further analysis. This part typically lasts between 15 to 60 minutes.
After the Procedure:
- Recovery: Stay in the recovery area until the sedation wears off. You might feel bloated or have gas.
- Diet and Activity: Follow your doctor’s advice. You can usually go back to normal activities the next day.
Possible Complications
A colonoscopy is generally safe, but there are some risks, though rare:
- Bleeding: Especially if polyps are removed.
- Perforation: A tear in the colon wall, which might need surgery.
- Reaction to Sedation: Allergic reactions or side effects from sedative medications.
- Infection: There’s a small risk of infection.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms after your colonoscopy:
- Severe abdominal pain or bloating
- Persistent bleeding from the rectum
- Black or tarry stools
- High fever or chills
- Trouble swallowing or severe throat pain
General Preparation Instructions for Gastrointestinal Procedures
Each gastrointestinal procedure requires specific preparations to ensure your safety and the success of the treatment. Here are some general guidelines:
- Fasting: Avoid food and drinks, including water, for several hours, or more as instructed by your healthcare provider.
- Medications: You may need to adjust or pause certain medications. Follow the specific directions given by your doctor.
- Bowel Prep: Some procedures require clearing the intestines using either a liquid solution or pills containing laxatives. Procedures like colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and PillCam capsule endoscopy typically require this type of preparation.
Please consult your doctor for detailed preparation instructions tailored to your health needs and the specific procedure.
Schedule an Appointment
Scheduling your appointment is through your gastroenterologist or by physician referral to one of our gastroenterologists.
Please contact your Gastroenterologist's office to schedule an exam/appointment. Contact us at 909.865.9141 for inquiries or questions.
If you do not have a primary care physician, please visit our website, mypvhc.com, to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician.
