Colonoscopy

The most thorough look at the colon we have, and the only screening test that removes polyps during the same exam.

A colonoscopy uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the full length of the colon and rectum. We use it both to screen people who feel well and to investigate symptoms such as rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits, unexplained anemia, or persistent abdominal pain. Anything that looks abnormal can be biopsied, and most polyps can be removed on the spot, before they ever have the chance to become cancer.

Screening or Diagnostic

A screening colonoscopy is for people with no symptoms. For those at average risk it begins at age 45, and it starts earlier for anyone with a family history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps, a personal history of polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease. Our colorectal cancer screening page explains the timing in more detail.

A diagnostic colonoscopy is done because of a symptom or an abnormal test result. The procedure is the same; the reason for it is different, and that distinction can affect how your insurance processes the claim. If a polyp is found and removed during a screening exam, some plans reclassify it as diagnostic, so it is worth asking your carrier how your plan handles this.

Before Your Colonoscopy

The prep is the part people dread, and it is also the part that matters most. An incomplete prep can hide polyps or make the exam impossible to finish, which means repeating the whole thing. Your physician will prescribe a specific prep, and each one has its own step-by-step instructions. If anything is unclear, call us before you start rather than during.

Tell us ahead of time if you take blood thinners, diabetes medications, or GLP-1 medications, since some need to be adjusted or paused before the procedure.

You must have a responsible adult to drive you home. Because you will be sedated, you cannot drive yourself, take a taxi or rideshare alone, or walk home. Without a driver, the procedure has to be rescheduled.

The Day of the Procedure

Plan on three to four hours at the surgery center from arrival to discharge. The procedure itself is a small part of that; the rest is check-in, preparation, and recovery while the sedation wears off. You will be sedated throughout, and most patients remember none of the exam itself.

Afterward

Some bloating and gas are normal for a few hours, since air is used to open the colon during the exam. Most people can eat normally afterward, but plan to rest for the remainder of the day and do not drive until the next day. Your physician will usually speak with you briefly before you leave. Biopsy results typically take about a week, and we go over them with you at your follow-up appointment.

Severe abdominal pain, fever, or significant rectal bleeding after a colonoscopy needs prompt attention. During office hours, call us. After hours, go to the nearest emergency room, since we do not have a physician on call.

Scheduling Without an Office Visit

If you are due for routine screening and in generally good health, you may not need a separate consultation first. Our direct access colonoscopy option lets you send us your information, and a member of our clinical staff will call to review your history and schedule the procedure.

Related: Colorectal cancer screening · What to expect · Prep instructions · Meet our gastroenterologists