What Is A Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy involves inserting a long, flexible tube, or “scope,” into the rectum and advancing it through the entire colon. This scope, equipped with a light and camera, allows your physician to capture a clear picture of the colon’s lining. Colonoscopies are performed to diagnose gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, bleeding, abdominal pain, or unusual x-ray results. Additionally, individuals over 45, or those with certain risk factors, may undergo colonoscopies to screen for colon cancer and polyps.
At Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology, our board-certified gastroenterologists frequently perform colonoscopies as a vital service for preventing colorectal cancer. For more information on colonoscopies, contact our Indianapolis, IN office.
Why Are Colonoscopies Important for Maintaining Colon Health?
Colonoscopy exams are crucial in preventing colon cancer, especially for individuals over the age of 45 or those at higher risk. These screenings provide numerous benefits for gastrointestinal and overall health, including:
- Early detection of colon and rectal cancer
- Identification and removal of abnormal growths
- Diagnosis of diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and other conditions
- Serve as the most effective screening method for colorectal cancer
- Have the potential to save lives
Advances in technology have made these screenings quicker, more comfortable, and more precise than ever before.
What Happens During A Colonoscopy?
Your doctor at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology will provide detailed instructions for bowel preparation. Most patients will be required to follow a clear liquid diet the entire day before the exam and use specific laxatives to completely cleanse the colon. It’s crucial to adhere to these instructions exactly. Additionally, you will receive guidance on managing your medications. In most cases, you will continue your medications as usual, but special instructions will be provided for those on blood thinners or diabetes medication. You should not eat or drink anything after midnight before the exam except for essential medications.
You will need to fill out some paperwork and prepare for the exam once you get to the endoscopy center, so plan to arrive 1 – 1.5 hours before your scheduled time. You will be asked to change into a medical gown, and an intravenous (IV) catheter will be inserted into your arm to administer sedation. During the procedure, your heart rate, blood pressure, pulse, electrocardiogram, breathing, and oxygen levels will be continuously monitored by the medical staff.
In the exam room, you will lie on your left side on a stretcher. The IV sedation will begin with small amounts to ensure your safety and comfort. Once an adequate level of sedation is reached, the physician will perform a rectal exam before gently inserting the colonoscope into the rectum. The scope will be carefully advanced through the colon to the point where it meets the small bowel. To improve visibility, a small amount of air will be introduced into the colon through the scope, and any remaining fluid can be suctioned out.
Depending on what the physician finds during the exam, various procedures may be performed, such as biopsies, removal of polyps, and bleeding management. At the end of the procedure, as much air and remaining fluid as possible will be suctioned out through the scope. The entire exam typically takes about 15 – 30 minutes, depending on the findings.
When Will I Receive My Colonoscopy Results?
Post-exam, you’ll be placed in a separate recovery room for monitoring as the sedation wears off, which typically takes 45 – 60 minutes. You won’t be able to drive, work, sign important documents, or engage in strenuous activities for the rest of the day, so arrange for transportation home. You can resume eating and drinking normally, following any specific instructions given.
The doctor or nurse will review the findings with you after the exam, but due to the aftereffects of the sedative, you might not remember these details. Bringing someone with you to hear the results is advisable. A typed report will be provided, and any biopsy results will be shared within a week.
Are There Alternatives to A Colonoscopy?
Your options will depend on the reason why you need to have your colon examined. While a colonoscopy is the most effective method for evaluating and treating colon abnormalities, there are other diagnostic options, like a barium enema or virtual CT scan. However, these alternatives are only diagnostic and would still require a colonoscopy or surgery for treatment.
What Are the Risks of A Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopies are generally very safe, with complications occurring in less than 1% of cases. Most complications are not life-threatening, but it’s essential to be aware of potential risks and contact your doctor if you experience any issues.
Medication reactions associated with the sedation can occur. These reactions can include allergic responses, difficulty breathing, effects on the heart and blood pressure, and irritation of the vein used to administer the medication.
Bleeding can happen with biopsies and the removal of polyps. Significant bleeding, which might require a blood transfusion or hospitalization, is very uncommon. However, bleeding can occur at the time of the exam or up to two weeks later if a polyp is removed.
Perforation or puncture of the colon is a rare complication. This may be recognized during the exam or may become apparent later in the day. In most cases, a perforation will require surgery and hospitalization.
It is crucial to contact your doctor’s office immediately if you experience symptoms such as worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever after the procedure. Early detection of these symptoms can prevent more severe complications.
Like any other test, a colonoscopy is not perfect. There is a small, accepted risk that abnormalities, including polyps and cancers, can be missed during the exam. It’s important to continue to follow up with your doctor at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology as instructed and inform them of any new or persistent symptoms.
The Preferred Choice for Colon Cancer Screening
Colonoscopy FAQs
At what age should you get a colonoscopy screening?
It is suggested patients who are at normal risk of developing colon cancer begin scheduling colonoscopies when they turn 45 years of age. If your personal risks for developing colon cancer are higher or if you are showing concerning symptoms of colon cancer, your gastroenterologist might recommend a colon cancer screening prior to 45.
How often should you get a colonoscopy screening?
Doctors advise getting these colon cancer screenings every decade for individuals who are at average risk, who are in favorable health, and who have colonoscopy results that are normal. Following your exam, your gastroenterologist will discuss with you how frequently you should schedule colonoscopy exams moving forward.
Will a colonoscopy be an uncomfortable exam?
Sedation will be administered before your colonoscopy to help ensure your comfort and relaxation while undergoing the procedure. Based on the type of sedation, patients may reach an intensely mellow state and possibly feel drowsy. Many individuals report virtually no recollection of the colonoscopy procedure. You can speak with your GI specialist about what you might experience during your consultation visit.
How long is the recovery period following a colonoscopy?
Generally, it takes around 24 hours to recuperate after having a colonoscopy, and many people are able to resume a normal routine the following day. If colon polyps are found and removed, recovery may take about a week. It is common to have some abdominal symptoms after a colonoscopy, including cramping and/or bloating. Our Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology team will provide additional information about what is expected during recovery.
