FAQs
What happens during a colonoscopy?
While you are sedated for the duration of the procedure, a flexible tube with a tiny video camera is inserted into your rectum and passed through your entire colon. High definition images transmitted to a video screen will allow the doctor to carefully examine the entire length of your colon for any abnormalities such as polyps, cancer, or diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
What is a sigmoidoscopy?
This procedure uses similar equipment as a colonoscopy, but only the lower part of your colon is examined, including the rectum and sigmoid colon, and sometimes, the descending colon.
What are the risks of the procedure?
All medical procedures have risks associated with them, but your physician will do everything to minimize them. With a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, the risks include perforation (1 every 2000 to 3000 procedures) and bleeding (0.2 to 4 in 1000, majority of which is minor). Minor cardiorespiratory complications can also occur, but these are easily treated with proper equipment. Serious cardiorespiratory complications are very rare if appropriate precautions are followed.
How do I prepare for the test?
You should carefully follow the preparation instructions provided to you. In general, you should avoid any solid food the day before, as well as the day of your scheduled procedure. Clear liquids such as broth, apple juice, and tea are acceptable during that time and can be consumed up to 2-4 hours before your test, depending on the procedure you are scheduled for. If your colon is not sufficiently clean, your doctor may need to reschedule your procedure.
How long does the procedure take?
The actual procedure takes only 20-30 minutes. Before it begins, you will be given sedation to help you remain relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. Once you are fully awake, generally within 30-90 minutes after the procedure, you will be discharged.
Can I drive home?
No. If you receive sedation you will need someone to drive you home. Failure to have arranged for a person to escort you home will result in the cancellation of your procedure. This is for your personal safety, our utmost concern.
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