Colonoscopy

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a medical test that looks at your lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract. An endoscope (long, thin tool) with a camera and other tools attached to the end of it is passed through your lower GI tract to see your rectum, colon, and small intestines. 

A colonoscopy is most often used to look for polyps. Polyps are precancerous or cancerous lesions. You may also have a colonoscopy if you have rectal bleeding or a change in your bowel movements. Most colonoscopies are done as outpatient procedures. In some cases, you may be able to get a virtual colonoscopy. This uses CT to look at your colon. Your provider will tell you if this is an option for you.

How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?

You will need to do a few things to get ready for the test. It is important to follow these instructions to empty your bowel. Call your provider if you have any questions. In general:

• You will need to be on a clear liquid diet for 1-2 days and take a laxative 24 hours before the procedure. This helps make sure all stool is out of the bowel and that the provider can see the lining of the intestine clearly.
• Because sedation (medication used to help you feel calm and sleepy during a procedure) will be used, you can not eat for 8 hours before the procedure.
• Talk to your provider about any allergies or heart and lung problems you have, as this can impact the types of medications that can be used for sedation.
• If you are on blood thinners, your provider will likely have you stop them several days before your procedure.

How is this test done?

An intravenous line (IV) will be placed. You will be asked to lie on your side on a table or gurney. You will be given a sedative through your IV to help you relax. Your provider will put the scope gently into your anus and move it through to the end of your lower bowel. Your provider then slowly removes the scope, looking at the bowel as the scope passes through. 

The endoscope has a light, a camera, and biopsy tools on it, in case a biopsy is needed. The test takes about 30 to 60 minutes, but you will need to be at the endoscopy center for several hours. You will need to be monitored after the test until you are completely awake. You will probably not remember having the test done. 

What should I expect after a colonoscopy?

You will not be allowed to drive yourself home after the test. You may feel bloated or have a small amount of bleeding and slight discomfort in the anal area, which will get better within a few days. A small amount of blood in your stool after the procedure is normal. You can expect to return to your normal bowel habits in 2-3 days. 

How do I get the results of my colonoscopy?

Your provider will talk to you about the findings of the test before you go home. Any biopsies that were taken will be sent to a pathologist to be reviewed. Biopsy results are usually ready in 7 to 10 days. Your provider will be able to talk about these results with you. 

When should I call my provider?

Call your provider if you have:

• Severe abdominal (belly) pain. If your abdomen becomes bigger and hard to the touch, this can be a sign of a tear or perforation in your colon and is a medical emergency. Call 911. 
• Bright red blood in two or more bowel movements or leaking of bright red blood. 
• Nausea and vomiting with blood in it.
• Fever (temperature higher than 100.4°F (38°C).