Ileo-Colonoscopy

What is it and why do I need it?

Colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure that uses a tiny camera attached to a long scope to examine the large intestine (the colon). Colonoscopy is mainly used to diagnose problems like diarrhea, chronic constipation, and bleeding.

You will be asked to sign a consent form at the time of the exam. The risks of colonoscopy are low (under 1%), but do include bleeding (which rarely can occur days later if a large polyp is removed), perforation, infection, tearing of the lining, aspiration, medication reactions, and heart/lung problems.

Before your colonoscopy, you must take a colon-cleansing product to clear the stool from your colon. Bowel preparation is no fun but is very important to ensure that your physician has optimal visualization of your colon during the procedure. Careful attention to your prep instructions will help avoid the need to reschedule or repeat your exam. Usually, you will need to stop eating solid food the day before your colonoscopy (you may still have clear liquids). You should, however, stop drinking all fluids (including clear liquids and water) 4 hrs before the exam (minimal sips are allowed only to take your usual meds). Please read your prep instructions immediately because the preparation process begins several days before your procedure! You must have someone who is at least 18 years old with you during the entire time from check-in through recovery. .

The entire process, from when you arrive to when you leave, may take 2-3 hours. Your procedure will take about 30-40 minutes and you will be sedated for it. Once you are asleep, the colonoscope will be inserted through your rectum and around the colon. Your physician will look for any abnormalities that need to be biopsied, removed, or treated.

Most patients experience little if any discomfort. You may have a full feeling so you will be encouraged to pass gas. You will remain in the recovery unit until your sedation has worn off to a satisfactory level. After discharge, you may resume your usual diet and light activities and return to work the following day. However, you may not drive, make important decisions, or operate machinery the rest of the day. If any biopsies are taken, you will be asked to follow up with the results in the OPD after 5-7 days.

If you take insulin or other diabetic medicines, dosage adjustments will be provided for you. Bring your insulin with you so that you can take it after the procedure if necessary. If you are on blood thinners let us know at the time of scheduling because they may need to be held. If you are taking any prescribed or over-the-counter diet pills, you should stop taking them 2 weeks (14 days) before your procedure. Failing to stop these medications 14 days in advance of your procedure may result in anesthesia complications and your procedure will need to be rescheduled. Iron supplements are usually held 2 days before the exam.