Colonoscopy is performed to evaluate the large intestine (colon). It can be used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions that may affect the colon. Colonoscopy is frequently used to find and remove colon polyps thus preventing colon cancer. Initial colon cancer screening by colonoscopy is currently recommended at age 50 and every 7-10 years thereafter. If you have a family or personal history of colon cancer or colon polyps this procedure might be recommended more often.

To best examine the colon, it must be cleared of waste material. Therefore, the day prior to your scheduled colonoscopy you will be on a clear liquid diet followed by one of several bowel cleansing preparations. The best bowel prep for you will be decided on by you and your doctor after reviewing your medical history and medications.

The day following your bowel prep you will come to the hospital for the procedure. When you arrive you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and an intravenous line will be started in your arm or hand. You will be given medication through the vein to make you feel relaxed and sleepy. The colonoscope is a thin flexible tube with a light and camera at its tip. It will be inserted into the rectum and gradually advanced through the entire colon. The lining of the colon will be examined thoroughly and then the scope will be slowly withdrawn. If you should have a colon polyp or growth within the colon, it can usually be removed during the procedure. Depending on your particular situation, it may also be necessary to perform a tissue biopsy from the lining of the colon during your colonoscopy.

After the procedure is complete, you will be taken to a recovery area for a short time until most of the effects of the medication have worn off. You might expect to be at the hospital approximately 3 hours from the time you arrived. A companion must accompany you to the procedure as you will not be able to drive afterwards. You will likely be able to resume a normal diet after the colonoscopy. Most people feel tired after the procedure and may have a little gas or bloating from air introduced into the colon during the procedure. By the following day most people feel back to normal and can resume normal activities including driving.

Colonoscopy is generally a very safe procedure with very low risk of complications when performed by a well trained, experienced physician. All the physicians at Gastroenterology Consultants of Louisville are Board Certified gastroenterologists with extensive experience performing colonoscopy. As with any procedure however, there are potential complications. One possible complication is a tear or perforation of the lining of the colon wall. This happens less than 1% of the time and may require surgery to correct. Bleeding is another potential complication. About 1 % of people who have polyps removed from their colon can develop bleeding at the site of removal. It is usually minor and stops on its own or can be controlled with cauterization. If there is any concern of a complication, contact the office immediately. A physician is available 24 hours a day.

Additional Information:
Bowel Cleaning Instructions
Consent form for Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy and Polypectomy

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