What Occurs During a Colonoscopy Procedure?

Colonoscopy

To view the interior of your colon, the doctor inserts a small, flexible tube into your body. To fill the tube, air or carbon dioxide is injected into it. It allows your doctor to see the lining of the colon and rectum better. They may also insert an instrument to remove polyps for biopsy if found.

Preparation

Colonoscopy Denver is a test that allows the doctor to look at your large intestine (colon). It can help detect small cancers, like those in the bowel, and remove polyps that can develop into colon cancer. A special diet is used to prepare your body for a colonoscopy. You eat a high-fiber diet and drink clear liquids only the day before the exam, which helps your intestines empty out. Your healthcare provider will discuss your dietary needs and plan a colonoscopy prep regimen that works best for you. They may recommend a laxative pill or a special liquid mixed with water, a sports drink or another clear fluid. Preparation for a colonoscopy can take time and planning, but following the instructions is important to ensure a successful procedure. Ask your provider for any inquiries concerning the preparation procedure and express any worries you may have so they may make recommendations to make it simpler for you.

During

The physician inserts a flexible tube called a colonoscope into the anus, rectum, and colon at this stage of the colonoscopy process. Your doctor can inspect the lining of your big intestine during a colonoscopy by using a camera to transmit a video picture to a display. If the doctor finds a polyp, they may remove it and send it to a lab for testing. The results will take a few days or weeks to come back. The doctor also may use a special tool to see the inside of your colon, called a scope. This device is lubricated to make inserting and pushing through the rectum and colon easier. The doctor will then adjust the colonoscope several times for better viewing. It will cause discomfort, especially if you are awake when the colonoscope is inserted or moved up the colon.

Post

A colonoscopy lets your doctor check the lining of your large intestine (colon). It uses a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope with a light and tiny camera on one end. It is put into your rectum and moved into your colon. Your doctor can remove polyps or other abnormal tissue during the exam for further examination. They may also treat problems found. Your doctor may also take a sample of your stool for testing. They will tell you what to do if your stool shows signs of blood or a blood clot. It would help to be careful not to drink anything red or purple the night before the exam, as these dyes can look like blood in your bowel. You must do a bowel preparation, such as an enema or powder that you dissolve in liquid. Your doctor may also give you a sedative to help you relax and stay calm during the procedure. After the process, you must remain in a special recovery room until your sedative wears off.

Recovery

Adherence to your doctor’s recovery recommendations after a colonoscopy is crucial. These instructions may include drinking plenty of water, resting and avoiding alcohol within 24 hours. Patients usually take sedatives to relax them and reduce discomfort during the procedure. These are typically combined with pain medications given intravenously.

Some patients experience mild bloating, cramping and flatulence after a colonoscopy due to the air introduced during the test. These symptoms generally resolve in a few days.

During the colonoscopy, your doctor will guide a small scope through your anus and into your large intestine. They may remove polyps or take a biopsy if they find any abnormal tissue.

If you have a polyp removed during the procedure, your doctor will send it to a lab for testing. Your doctor will also tell you if any polyps are cancerous.