Colonoscopy
External resources:
SAGES Colonscopy Info |
What is Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy allows the doctor to examine the inside of your colon and rectum. A long flexible tube (colonoscope) with a small camera is passed into your rectum and colon. On a video monitor, the doctor looks for any abnormal areas on the lining of your colon. Sometimes a small tissue sample will be taken. This is called a biopsy. If polyps (small growths) are found, they can be removed using tiny tools passed through the colonoscope. The samples will be sent to a lab where they will be checked for any signs of cancer as well as other diseases of the colon. Benefits of a Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy:
Risks of a Colonoscopy
For most people, a colonoscopy is a safe and straightforward procedure. However, the following rare complications are possible:
Before your colonoscopy
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During your colonoscopy
After your colonoscopy
When you go home
For the next 24 hours:
Call the doctor who performed the colonoscopy if you have concerns or if you experience:
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