Colonoscopy



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   After careful medical assessment your doctor has recommended that you have colonoscopy (koh-lun-NAH-skuh-pee).  Colonoscopy allows the physician to look inside your entire large intestine, from the lowest part, the rectum and the large intestine (colon) and to identify any abnormalities such as inflamed tissue, abnormal growths, ulcers, bleeding and muscle spasms.

    You will be asked to sign a consent form authorizing the doctor to perform the procedure.

    Please inform the doctor and the GI nurse if you are allergic to any medications.  It is very helpful to bring a list of your medications including any over the counter drugs you take daily. 
     An intravenous line (IV) will be started for the purpose of giving medications that will make you sleepy and relaxed for the procedure. 

     For the procedure you will lie on your left side on the examining table or stretcher.  You will be given pain medication and a mild sedative to keep you comfortable and relaxed during the exam. The physician will insert a long, flexible, lighted tube into your rectum and slowly guide it through your colon.

   		   The tube is called a colonoscope (kon-LON-oh-skope).  The scope transmits the image of the inside of the colon, so the physician can move it around the curves of your colon.  You may be asked to change position occasionally to help the physician move the scope.  The scope also blows air into your colon, which inflates the colon and helps the physician see better. You may feel bloating or cramps due to the air that is put into the colon.

     Often a biopsy specimen (tiny piece of tissue) is taken for microscopic examination. If you have a polyp, it may be removed by electrocautery through the colonoscopy.  You will not feel any sensation or discomfort when the biopsy is performed or the polyp is removed.

     Bleeding or puncture of the colon are possible complications  of colonoscopy. These complication should be discussed with your physician.  However, such complication are very uncommon. 

     The procedure takes 30 to 60 minutes.  Many people do not recall any of the procedure because of the effect of the medication.  After the procedure, you will probably feel drowsy and may sleep for a short time.  You may feel some bloating from the air inserted during the procedure.  You will feel more comfortable if you expel this air.

     Before you leave the doctor will discuss the findings  with you.  The GI nurse will give you written instructions to follow when you get home.  Also you MUST arrange for someone to take you home afterward--you will not be allowed to drive because of the sedatives.
 
Preparation:
     Your doctor will give you special instructions.  If you have any problems with your preparation call your physician for additional instructions.   Your colon must be completely empty for the colonoscopy to be thorough and safe.   The stool should be liquid and clear of solid matter.

     If you have any questions, please contact your physician.

Reference: Society of Gastoenterology Nurses and Associates, Colonoscopy brouchure and Guide for Patients prepared by National Digestive Diseases Information Clearing House