Explore Gastroenterology & DigestiveColonoscopy
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is the most effective way to prevent and screen for colon cancer, which is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men and women in Connecticut. During a colonoscopy, one of UConn Health’s dedicated gastroenterologists examines the large bowel using a small, flexible, lighted camera inserted in the anus. This allows the doctor to examine the colon, checking for polyps or any other abnormal tissue, which could be signs of cancer.
Preventing Colon Cancer
While no cancer is completely preventable, you can reduce the likelihood of developing colon cancer by paying attention to your colorectal health and making healthy lifestyle choices. In addition to staying physically active, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a diet low in red and processed meat, the best way to prevent colon cancer is with a screening colonoscopy.
UConn Health Minute: Preventing Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is a leading cause of death in the U.S. because when it is detected late, it is very difficult to treat. That’s why prevention is key. Dr. Murali Dharan, director of the Advanced Endoscopy Program at UConn Health, says having a screening colonoscopy is the first step in prevention.
When You Should Get a Colonoscopy
The American Cancer Society recommends people at average risk for colon cancer begin screening at age 45. Your doctor may recommend scheduling additional colonoscopies every 1-10 years, depending on your specific needs or family history.
How a Colonoscopy Works
During a colonoscopy, your doctor examines the lining of your colon for abnormalities with an instrument called a colonoscope. Air is blown into the colon so the colonoscope can be slowly advanced into the rectum and colon, letting the doctor examine the lining closely on a video monitor.
If your doctor finds polyps (small clumps of cells on the intestinal lining) during the examination, they will remove them. A biopsy, or a small sample, may be needed to evaluate any findings. These can occur during your colonoscopy and won’t cause any additional pain.
Rarely, the doctor won’t be able to move the colonoscope through your entire colon to where it meets the small intestine. If this happens, your doctor will let you know if any additional testing is required.
You should receive the results of your colonoscopy within a few days to a week.
What Is a Polyp?
Sometimes small growths of cells occur in the colon lining. These are called polyps, and they may be as small as a tiny dot or up to several inches in size. Polyps, while not always cancerous, can be the first sign of colorectal cancer, so they’ll need to be removed and analyzed by pathologists.
Colonoscopy & Pain
A colonoscopy is usually not very painful, but you may feel some pressure, bloating, or cramping while prepping for your colonoscopy and after the procedure. This can be relieved by passing gas.
After the Colonoscopy
After your procedure, you may stay at the hospital for an hour or more to ensure you’re recovering well. You may experience some cramping or bloating because of the air introduced into the colon during the exam, but it should go away quickly once you pass gas. Your doctor will check on you and explain the results of your colonoscopy, although the results of a biopsy will take several days.
If you have been given sedatives, it takes a while for them to fully wear off, and your judgment and reflexes may be impaired for the rest of the day. Once you’re discharged, you’ll need someone to drive you home or you should take public transportation, as you will be unable to drive.
You should be able to eat after your examination, but your doctor might restrict your diet and activities.
Possible Complications
The colonoscopy and polyp removal procedures are generally safe when performed by trained and experienced doctors.
Possible complications of the procedures include:
- A tear through the bowel wall
- Bleeding at the site of the biopsy or polypectomy
- A reaction to the sedatives
- Complications from heart or lung disease
Complications after a colonoscopy aren’t common, but it’s important to recognize early warning signs. While bleeding can occur several days after your procedure, contact your doctor if you have severe abdominal pain, fever and chills, or rectal bleeding.
Preparing for Your Colonoscopy
To prepare for your colonoscopy, your colon must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and comprehensive. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
You will typically need to restrict your diet and follow a cleansing routine. This generally includes limiting your diet to clear liquids the day before and consuming either a large volume of a cleansing solution or oral laxatives.
The Day of Your Procedure
On the day of the procedure, your doctor may give you a sedative or painkiller. This will help you relax and better tolerate any discomfort.
How Much Time It Takes To Get a Colonoscopy
You should plan on two to three hours for preparation, procedure, and recovery. The procedure usually takes about 45 minutes.
Colonoscopy & Your Current Medications
It’s important to tell your doctor about the medications you’re currently taking, especially aspirin products, arthritis medications, blood thinners, clopidogrel, insulin, or iron products. While most medications can be continued as usual, some can interfere with the preparation or the exam. You should also let your doctor know if you are allergic to any medications.
Why Choose UConn Health for Your Colonoscopy Screening?
UConn Health has a talented and dedicated gastroenterology team that specializes in colonoscopies and all aspects of your digestive health.
Our Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology offers a wide range of clinical services, providing diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the esophagus, stomach, intestines, gallbladder, liver, pancreas, and colon. As a teaching hospital, we also train medical students, residents, and fellows. Opportunities for research participation are available.
Our physicians are board-certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology and have up-to-date skills and expertise in a variety of digestive and liver disorders. As an academic medical center, we also specialize in many aspects of gastroenterology and hepatology not readily available at other regional centers.
About Our Colon Cancer Prevention Program
As part of our Colon Cancer Prevention Program, you’ll work with your doctor to take steps to reduce your colon cancer risk. They can recommend the best approach and share advice on your specific needs for colon cancer screening.
At UConn Health, we evaluate all types of colonic and anorectal disorders with state-of-the-art, high-resolution equipment. With expertise in inflammatory bowel disease and familiarity with the newest available treatments, we can help you address all aspects of your gastroenterological health.
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