Colonoscopy Recommendations

A patient has been suggested the method of colonoscopy if they have any early signs of cancer, inflamed (red or swollen) tissue, ulcers (open sores), nausea, vomiting, bloating or rectal irritation, bad reaction to the pain medicine or the sedative or bleeding. Most people will have their first colonoscopy for routine cancer screening. A colonoscopy provides a better view of your large intestine than other types of imaging tests that don’t go inside your body. A colonoscopy is considered negative if the doctor doesn't find any abnormalities in the colon. It is considered positive if the doctor finds any polyps or abnormal tissue in the colon.

The colonoscopy is performed by a doctor experienced in the procedure and lasts approximately 30-60 minutes.
-During a colonoscopy, the surgeon uses a colonoscope, a long, flexible, tubular instrument that transmits an image of the lining of the colon to observe any abnormalities.
-Following the above procedure, the scope bends, so the surgeon can move it around the curves of your colon. The scope also blows air into your colon, which expands the colon and helps the doctor see more clearly.
-During the colonoscopy, if something abnormal is observed, small amounts of tissue can be removed for analysis, and abnormal growths, or polyps, can be identified and removed.
-After the exam, it takes about an hour to begin to recover from the sedative.
-Following surgery, the patient may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the exam, as you clear the air from your colon.
-There are some dietary restrictions as well that needs to be followed before and after the surgery for quick recovery.