Colonoscopy
Care Before the Procedure
- Bowel Preparation (Critical Step):
- A clear liquid diet (broth, juice, gelatin) for 24 hours before the procedure.
- Prescribed laxative solution (e.g., PEG-based) to empty the colon completely.
- Follow instructions precisely to ensure a clear view during the procedure.
- Medication Adjustments:
- Discuss all medications with your doctor; temporarily stop blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, aspirin) if advised.
- Adjust diabetes or other medications as directed.
- Fasting:
- No food or drink (except clear liquids) for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
- Arrangements:
- Arrange for transportation home due to sedation effects.
Care During the Procedure
- Setting: Outpatient endoscopy centre or hospital.
- Sedation:
- IV sedation (e.g., propofol) for comfort; most patients sleep through the procedure.
- Process:
- You will lie on your side while the colonoscope is inserted.
The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes. - Polyps are removed (polypectomy), and biopsies are taken if needed.
- You will lie on your side while the colonoscope is inserted.
- Patient Experience:
- No pain or memory of the procedure due to sedation.
- Minimal discomfort from air insufflation (may cause bloating).
Care After the Procedure
- Recovery:
- Monitored for 30–60 minutes until sedation wears off.
- You may experience gas or mild cramping; passing gas helps relieve bloating.
- Resume normal diet unless otherwise instructed.
- Results:
- Preliminary findings are discussed before you leave.
Biopsy results take 7–10 days; follow up with your doctor.
- Preliminary findings are discussed before you leave.
- Activity:
- Avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions for 24 hours.
- Most resume normal activities the next day.
- Complications (Rare):
- Seek medical help for severe abdominal pain, fever, heavy rectal bleeding, or dizziness.
- Follow-Up Screening:
- If no polyps are found, repeat in 10 years (average risk).
- If polyps are found, follow-up intervals vary (e.g., 3–5 years for adenomas).
- Note: Colonoscopy is a lifesaving procedure with a strong track record of preventing colorectal cancer. Adherence to prep instructions is crucial for success. High-quality screening requires an experienced endoscopist and a well-prepared colon. Discuss any concerns with your gastroenterologist to ensure a safe and effective experience.
Eligibility
- Colonoscopy is recommended for:
- Average-risk adults starting at age 45 (per ACS guidelines).
- High-risk individuals with:
- Family or personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis).
- Genetic syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome, FAP).
- Symptomatic patients with:
- Rectal bleeding or blood in stool.
- Persistent changes in bowel habits.
- Unexplained abdominal pain or weight loss.
- Bowel Preparation (Critical Step):
- A clear liquid diet (broth, juice, gelatin) for 24 hours before the procedure.
- Prescribed laxative solution (e.g., PEG-based) to empty the colon completely.
- Follow instructions precisely to ensure a clear view during the procedure.
- Medication Adjustments:
- Discuss all medications with your doctor; temporarily stop blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, aspirin) if advised.
- Adjust diabetes or other medications as directed.
- Fasting:
- No food or drink (except clear liquids) for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
- Arrangements:
- Arrange for transportation home due to sedation effects.
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