Colonoscopy

	Donna Sloper, RN Patient Care Director at Inova Fairfax Hospital Gastroenterology Lab/ Presurgical Services and Outpatient Testing/Lions Eye clinic and the Center for Liver Diseases
	Rebecca Jackson, RN Endoscopy Clinical Manager Inova Alexandria Hospital

Q: What is colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy means looking inside the entire colon through a tiny video camera. The procedure is used to check for cancer in the colon and rectum. A colonoscopy every 10 years beginning at age 50 is one of the options for routine screening for colon cancer. (People who are at higher-than-average risk for colorectal cancer may need to be screened earlier and more often.) Colonoscopy is also used to diagnose problems such as rectal bleeding or an unexplained change in bowel habits.

Q: Are their advantages to the colonoscopy over other screening options?
Colonoscopy, unlike other screening tests, is used for treatment as well as screening. Polyps, abnormal growths on the inside lining of the intestine, can be removed during a colonoscopy, before they have a chance to become cancer.

Q: Where do I go to get a colonoscopy?
Because colonoscopy requires an intravenous sedative, the procedure is done in a hospital or outpatient office.

Q: How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
You need a clean colon on the day of the exam to ensure a safe, accurate colonoscopy. For many people, thoroughly cleansing the colon is the most vexing aspect of the procedure. You will be asked to follow a clear liquid diet the day before your colonoscopy and to not eat or drink anything 8 hours before the procedure. You will also need to take laxatives and/or enemas the day preceding the colonoscopy.

Q: What should I expect the day of my colonoscopy?
After signing a form giving your consent to the colonoscopy, you will be given an intravenous sedative to minimize any discomfort. A colonoscopy does not hurt. Some people, however, do report cramping, bloating, or feeling the urge to have a bowel movement. You will be relaxed, able to follow instructions but will likely not remember much of the 30 - 60 minute procedure.

As you lie on your left side on the examining table, the physician will first do a rectal exam with his gloved, lubricated finger. The physician will then gently insert a long, lighted tube and guide it into your colon. As the tube bends through the curves of your colon, the physician will monitor the image on a TV at your bedside. If the doctor sees polyps or other suspicious growths, he can remove them by passing tiny instruments through the tube.

After the colonoscopy, it will take 1 - 2 hours for the sedative to wear off. You will not be allowed to drive yourself home and should not expect to work for the rest of the day. Most people can resume normal activities the following day.

Q: Are there any complications from colonoscopy?
Complications are rare, but can occur. Bleeding and perforation of the colon wall are possible complications. Discuss benefits and risks of colonoscopy with your doctor.

Resources
Personal Testimonial - Steve Hart
Darrell Green PSA's