Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is the inspection of the entire large intestine (colon) using a long, flexible, lighted viewing scope (colonoscope), which is usually linked to a video monitor. A colonoscopy may be done to screen for cancer or to investigate symptoms, such as bleeding.
Colonoscopy is done in the hospital or a doctor's office that has the necessary equipment. Preparation for the test includes emptying the bowels ahead of time using a laxative. The person undergoing colonoscopy is given medicine to relieve pain and to make him or her drowsy. The test usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, but it may take longer, depending upon what is found and what is done during the test.
A doctor will collect a tissue sample (biopsy) from any abnormal area. The tissue is then analyzed by a pathologist.
Colonoscopy: Overview
Preparing for colonoscopy
How do you prepare for a colonoscopy?
You need to clean out your colon before the procedure so the doctor can see your colon. This depends on which "colon prep" your doctor recommends.
To clean out your colon, you'll do a "colon prep" before the test. This means you stop eating solid foods and drink only clear liquids. You can have water, tea, coffee, clear juices, clear broths, flavored ice pops, and gelatin (such as Jell-O). Do not drink anything red or purple.
The day or night before the procedure, you drink a large amount of a special liquid. This causes loose, frequent stools. You will go to the bathroom a lot. Your doctor may have you drink part of the liquid the evening before and the rest on the day of the test. It's very important to drink all of the liquid. If you have problems drinking it, call your doctor.
Arrange to have someone take you home after the test.
During the procedure
How is a colonoscopy done?
A colonoscopy may be done in a doctor's office, clinic, or a hospital.
During the test, you may get a pain medicine and a sedative put in a vein in your arm (I.V.). These medicines help you relax and feel sleepy during the test. You may not remember much about the test.
Before the test
You will need to take off most of your clothes. You will be given a gown to wear during the test.
You may lie on your left side with your knees pulled up to your belly. Because you will be given medicine during the colonoscopy, you probably won't remember having the test when you wake up.
Next, the doctor will insert a thin, flexible colonoscope in your anus and move it slowly through the rectum and into your colon. Air will be used to inflate your colon so the doctor can see the lining of the colon on a monitor.
During the test
Your doctor will look at the whole length of your colon as the scope is gently moved in and then out of your colon. You may be asked to change your position during the test.
The doctor may also collect tissue samples (biopsy) or take out growths. Usually, people don't feel anything if a biopsy is done or if polyps are taken out.
The scope is slowly pulled out of your anus, and the air escapes. Your anal area will be cleaned with tissues. If you are having cramps, passing gas may help relieve them.
After the test
After the test, you'll stay at the clinic until you wake up and then have a brief visit from your doctor. Then you'll be allowed to leave with the person who will drive you home.
After the procedure
opyrighted material adapted with permission from Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.
