Colonoscopy

Medical Author: Eric Lee, M.D.
Medical Reviewing Author/Editor: Dennis Lee, M.D.

• What is colonoscopy?
• Why is colonoscopy done?
• What bowel preparation is needed for colonoscopy?
• What about current medications or diet before colonoscopy?
• What to expect during colonoscopy?
• What if there are abnormalities detected during colonoscopy?
• What to expect after a colonoscopy?
• What are the possible complications or alternatives?
• Virtual Colonoscopy
• Patient Discussions: Colonoscopy - Describe Your Experience

What is colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a procedure that enables an examiner (usually a gastroenterologist) to evaluate the appearance of the inside of the colon (large bowel). This is accomplished by inserting a flexible tube that is about the thickness of a finger into the anus, and then advancing it slowly, under visual control, into the rectum and through the colon. It is performed with the visual control of either looking through the instrument or with viewing a TV monitor.

Why is colonoscopy done?

This test may be done for a variety of reasons. Most often it is done to investigate the finding of blood in the stool, abdominal pain, diarrhea, a change in the bowel habits, or an abnormality found on colon x- ray or a CT scan. Certain individuals with previous history of polyps or colon cancer and certain individuals with family history of particular malignancies or colon problems may be advised to have periodic colonoscopies because they are at a greater risk of polyps or colon cancer.

What bowel preparation is needed for colonoscopy?

If the procedure is to be complete and accurate, the colon must be completely clean. Patients are given detailed instructions about the cleansing of the colon procedure. In general this consists of a large volume of a special cleansing solution or several days of a clear liquid diet and laxatives or enemas prior to the examination. These instructions should be followed to the letter or the procedure may be unsatisfactory and have to be repeated later or a less accurate alternative chosen in its place.

What about current medications or diet before colonoscopy?

Most medications should be continued as usual, but some may interfere with the examination. It is best that the physician is informed of all current prescription or over the counter medications. Aspirin products, blood thinners (Coumadin, etc.), arthritis medications, insulin, and iron preparations are examples of medications that may require special instructions. The physician will also want to be aware of the patient's allergies and any other major illnesses. The examiner should be alerted if, in the past, patients have required antibiotics prior to surgical or dental procedures. Instructions may also be given to avoid certain foods for a couple of days prior to the procedure, such as stringy foods, foods with seeds, or red Jello.

Next: What to expect during colonoscopy? »

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