What is it?

Colonoscopy is used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions within the large intestine, which is also called the colon. Colonoscopy is recommended for men and woman age 45 and above.

 

 

How is it Done?

A small catheter for intravenous (IV) medicines is inserted into your arm. The medication helps you relax and become sleepy. You’ll be placed in a comfortable position on your left side. Your physician will gently examine your rectum with a lubricated, gloved finger. A large flexible tube, called a colonoscope, will be inserted into your rectum and moved throughout the length of the colon to view the lining of the large intestine. You may be placed in a different position during the exam, such as on your back, to make it easier to pass the instrument through the entire large bowel. If a suspicious area is noted, a small tissue sample will be taken and tested to make a diagnosis. The examination takes approximately 30 minutes.

Colonoscopy Procedure Video

This procedure is an examination of the large intestine. The physician will look for inflammation, ulcers, or abnormal growths called polyps. The physician uses a colonoscope. This is an instrument with a small camera attached to a soft, flexible tube. The procedure usually lasts from 30 minutes to an hour.

Why is it done?

Colonoscopy is used to detect and remove polyps. Polyps are abnormal tissue growths on the intestinal wall that can range in size from a small dot to several inches. Polyps are usually removed because they can lead to rectal bleeding, grow larger and develop into cancerous growths, or even be cancerous.