Prior to Procedure

Your doctor will likely do the following:

• Physical exam
• Health history
• Review of medications
• Test to check your stool for hidden blood, called "occult blood"

In the days leading up to your procedure:

• Your colon must be completely cleaned out before the procedure. A number of methods may be used, including enemas, laxatives, and a clear-liquid diet. You may be asked to drink a large container of solution that aids in the emptying of the colon. This may start several days before the procedure. It is important that you complete this preparation step.
• Do not take bulk-forming laxatives or iron-containing medications or supplements for one week before the procedure, unless told otherwise by your doctor.
• Do not take aspirin or other anti-inflammatory or blood-thinning drugs for one week before the procedure, unless told otherwise by your doctor.
• Do not eat or drink anything for 8 to 10 hours before the procedure.
• If you have insulin-dependent diabetes, ask your doctor about any adjustments to your insulin dose.
• Arrange for a ride to and from the procedure.

Anesthesia

Sedation is given to decrease discomfort.

Description of the Procedure

You lie on your left side with knees bent and drawn up toward your chest. The lubricated, pencil-sized colonoscope is slowly inserted through the rectum and into the bowel. The colonoscope injects air into the colon. A small attached video camera lets the doctor view the colon's lining on a video screen. The doctor will continue guiding the instrument through the bowel and assess the lining, looking for problems.

A tissue sample or polyps may be removed. A biopsy is always necessary to diagnose cancer or pre-cancer. If tissue is removed, a small amount of bleeding may occur during the first 2 days after the procedure.

After Procedure

A lab will exam any tissue or fluid that was removed.

After your procedure, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions .

How Long Will It Take?

The colonoscopy takes less than one hour. Expect to stay at the hospital or doctor's office for another hour or two or until the sedative wears off. Because of the medication used, it is generally required that someone drive you home from the procedure.

Will It Hurt?

Although most patients report little or no discomfort during the procedure, there may be feelings of cramping, bloating, fullness, or a need to have a bowel movement.

Possible Complications

• Bleeding
• Perforation or puncture of the bowel

Average Hospital Stay

There is no hospital stay associated with a colonoscopy procedure.

Postoperative Care

• Because the sedative will make you drowsy, don't drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions the day of the procedure.
• Rest for the remainder of the day.
• Feelings of bloating, gas, or cramping may persist for 24 hours.
• Resume medications as instructed by your doctor.
• Resume your normal diet, unless told otherwise by your doctor.