Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is used to visually examine your entire colon and rectum for abnormalities. Colonoscopy isgenerally considered the procedure of choice for colon cancer screening. During the exam, a colonoscope — along, flexible tube about the thickness of an adult finger — is inserted into your rectum. A tiny video camera at itstip allows your doctor to view the inside of your colon.In some cases during colonoscopy, if a polyp or abnormal tissue is found, your doctor may remove it at that time.Alternatively, a tissue sample (biopsy) of the polyp may be taken for lab analysis to determine whether subsequent surgical removal of the tissue is needed.
How do you prepare?
For the colonoscopy procedure to be accurate, your colon must be well prepared. It must be clear of stool andfluids that obscure the view of the colon and rectal lining.What you do the day before the exam directly affects how well your colon can be examined. To prepare your colon, you'll likely be asked to do the following during the 24 hours before the exam:
Stop taking iron pills or medications containing iron, as iron can alter the color of your colon lining.
Take laxatives and sometimes enemas prescribed by your doctor.
Avoid eating solid foods and opaque liquids.
Drink only clear, nonalcoholic liquids such as black coffee, tea, water, or clear broth and juices. Eat onlysoft foods such as Jell-O — but not red Jell-O.
Avoid liquids that are red in color, as they can look red in the colon and be confused with blood.
Take a five-minute walk every 10 minutes during the time you're drinking the laxative, but stay near atoilet.During this preparation time, you may have a frequent and urgent need to use the toilet, due to the laxatives.On exam day you may be asked to fast. In some cases your diet is again restricted to clear, nonalcoholic liquidsup to four to six hours before the exam. At this point you stop ingesting anything, including any medications, untilafter the procedure.If you have diabetes or take blood thinners, including aspirin or other pain relievers, your preparation for colonoscopy may be slightly different. Remind your doctor of either of these factors at least seven days ahead of the test, to see if you need additional instructions.In rare instances phosphate-based colon-cleansing solutions have caused kidney damage in certain groups of people. These groups include healthy older adults, those taking medication for hypertension, arteriosclerosis or heart disease, and those with chronic kidney disease. You may be given a different type of laxative solution if youfit in one of these categories.
How is it done?
A colonoscopy can be relatively painless when performed by an experienced practitioner. However, the exam cancause sufficient anxiety and pain, so people generally tolerate the procedure better when they have some form of anesthesia. Most often you'll receive a mild sedative either alone or with an opiate pain medication administeredintravenously to minimize any discomfort.
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