A colonoscopy is a non-surgical examination of the rectum and colon, using a long narrow tube with a tiny camera at the end. The procedure can be used to diagnose lower digestive tract conditions and diseases, as well as to proactively prevent and manage colorectal cancer.
Learn more about preventive screening here.
Before the Procedure
Consult with Dr. Ewelukwa.
Before your colonoscopy, we’ll speak with you to learn about any existing medical conditions and walk you through what to expect from the procedure.
Arrange a ride home.
You will need to coordinate a ride home after the procedure, as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours while the anesthesia wears off.
Cleanse the bowels.
For a successful examination, it’s important that the intestines are completely clean. You will get detailed instructions on what you can eat and drink before the procedure, as well as what sort of laxatives and enemas you will need to take the night before the colonoscopy.
During the Procedure
Colonoscopies are generally finished in under one hour. You’ll be given light anesthesia and pain medication to help make you more comfortable. During the procedure, a long, narrow tube is inserted through the rectum and guided through your lower intestines, and a small camera sends images to a computer. If polyps are detected, they will be removed, and a sample of tissue will be collected for laboratory analysis.
After the Procedure
Get discharge instructions.
After your colonoscopy, you will receive detailed, written instructions about what to expect post-procedure, as well as what you can eat and how to take care of yourself.
Recover from the procedure.
Recovery is generally quick, and most people can go back to a normal diet within one day. You’ll need some time for the anesthesia to wear off, and may experience mild cramping or bloating immediately after the procedure.
Receive results.
After your anesthesia has worn off, we will share the results of the colonoscopy. If we send tissue for a biopsy, we’ll call you when those results come in.
