A gastroenterologist is a doctor who has been trained in performing colonoscopy. Before the procedure, you will be sedated by an anesthesiologist, and you will be placed on your side on an operating table. The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes on average. During colonoscopy, the gastroenterologist will insert a long, flexible endoscope into your rectum. This instrument contains a light source and a tiny camera. The camera transmits images of the colon back to a monitor. The images are used to detect any abnormalities.
If the doctor should spot something that appears to be abnormal, a small tissue sample will be taken for later analysis in a lab. If a precancerous polyp is seen then it can be removed during the colonoscopy procedure.
Preparing for Colonoscopy Treatment
Before the date set for the colonoscopy, you will be put on a restricted diet. The diet varies according to the doctor’s instructions. You can expect to be on a clear liquid diet for the day prior to the procedure which includes jello, broth, sports drinks and clear juice such as apple or white grape. You will need to take a laxative preparation the evening before the procedure to help clear the colon of all stool contents.
As you will be sedated during the procedure, make sure you to bring someone with you to the procedure to take you home.
After the Treatment
After the procedure has been completed, you will stay in the recovery room for 30 minutes or so. You can immediately resume your normal diet. You may experience gas or slight abdominal discomfort, but this will pass quickly.
Your doctor will provide you with instructions to follow upon discharge. If you take any blood-thinning agent, you may need to avoid them temporarily if polyps were removed or a biopsy was performed. Visit KEDIA for more info.
