Colonoscopy is the endoscopic examination of the large colon and the distal part of the small bowel with�
a CCD camera or a fiber optic camera on a flexible tube passed through the anus.� Colonoscopy is�
generally considered the procedure of choice for colon cancer screening. During the exam, a�
colonoscope � a long, flexible tube about the thickness of an adult finger � is inserted into your rectum.�
A tiny video camera at its tip allows your doctor to view the inside of your colon.
In some cases during colonoscopy, if a polyp or abnormal tissue is found, your doctor may remove it at�
that time. Alternatively, a tissue sample (biopsy) of the polyp may be taken for lab analysis to determine�
whether subsequent surgical removal of the tissue is needed.�
To prepare for colonoscopy one may asked to do the following 24 hours prior to the exam:
To stop taking iron pills or medications containing iron.
To take laxatives and sometimes enemas prescribed by your doctor.
Asked to avoid eating solid foods and other opaque liquids.
To drink only clear and nonalcoholic liquids and juices.
Procedure
A mild sedative along with a pain medication is administered intravenously to minimize any discomfort.
The patient is asked to lie on to the left side and the colonoscope is inserted into the rectum. The�
instrument is long enough to allow the doctor to view the entire length of the colon. It has a fiber-optic�
light and a channel that allows your doctor to pump air into your colon. Inflating the colon gives a better�
view of the interior lining. Some abdominal cramping or pressure is felt as the air is introduced.
The colonoscope also contains a tiny video camera at its tip which transmits images to an external�
monitor so that the doctor can look closely at the inside of your colon. Instruments can be inserted�
through the colonoscope's channel to remove polyps, take tissue samples, inject solutions or destroy�
(cauterize) tissues.
If a polyp or abnormal tissue is found, it may be removed with a snare or destroyed with cautery.�
A colonoscopy exam usually takes about 20 minutes to an hour.
