Division Of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Background:
The colon must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and complete. Your physician will give you detailed instructions regarding the dietary restrictions to be followed and the cleansing routine to be used. In general, preparation consists of either consumption of a large volume of a special cleansing solution or several days of clear liquids, laxatives, and enemas prior to the examination. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If you do not, the procedure may have to be canceled and repeated later.
Preparation The preparation usually entails taking a bowel cleanser the day before the procedure. Depending on your physician, one of two different bowel regimens will be given. If you have any questions concerning which bowel preparation, please contact your physician.
How the Examination is Performed: Colonoscopy is usually well tolerated and rarely causes much pain. There is often a feeling of pressure, bloating, or cramping at times during the procedure. Your doctor will give you medication through a vein to help you relax and better tolerate any discomfort from the procedure. You will be lying on your side or on your back while the colonoscope is advanced slowly through the large intestine. As the colonoscope is slowly withdrawn, the lining is again carefully examined. the procedure usually takes 15 to 60 minutes. In some cases, passage of the colonoscope through the entire colon to it junction with the small intestine cannot be achieved. The physician will decide if the limited examination is sufficient or if other examinations are necessary. Because of the effects of the medication, you may be forgetful and will probably feel drowsy after the exam. You must make prior arrangements for a responsible adult to pick you up from the recovery area and accompany you home - you are not allowed to drive on the day of the exam. You will need an escort to come to the department and take you home, even if you are traveling by taxicab or CTA. THE PROCEDURE WILL BE CANCELLED IF YOU HAVE NOT MADE PRIOR ARRANGEMENT TO BE ESCORTED HOME. Before you leave Medical Special Procedures, the physician who performed the examination will discuss the findings with you and will send a report to your physician.
Risks of Colonoscopy: Colonoscopy and polypectomy are generally safe when performed by physicians who have been specially trained and are experienced in endoscopic procedures. One possible complication is a perforation or tear through the bowel wall that could require surgery. Bleeding may occur from the site of biopsy or polypectomy. It is usually minor and stops on its own or can be controlled through the colonoscope. Rarely, blood transfusions or surgery may be required. Other potential risks include a reaction to the sedatives used and complications from heart or lung disease. Localized irritation of the vein where medications were injected may rarely cause a tender lump lasting for several weeks, but his will go away eventually. Applying hot packs or hot moist towels may help relieve discomfort. Although complications after colonoscopy are uncommon, it is important for you to recognize early signs of any possible complications. Contact your physician who performed the colonoscopy if you notice any of the following symptoms: severe abdominal pain, fever and chills, black stools, or excessive rectal bleeding. A small amount of rectal bleeding is normal, but if you are bleeding and you need to wipe yourself more than once, you should contact your physician. Of note, bleeding can occur several days after polypectomy. |
Your doctor has referred you for a colonoscopy.