What exactly is a colonoscopy?
In a colonoscopy, your physician visually examines the inner lining of your large intestine, also called a colon. This is done with a thin, flexible tube that has a tiny camera on the end. The tube is gently inserted into the large intestine through the rectum and guided into the intestine to see its entire length.
Can colon cancer be prevented?
Yes, the removal of polyps from your large intestine can actually prevent colon cancer. Colon cancer is the most preventable form of cancer.
People are often surprised to learn that colon cancer is also one of the most common cancers in the United States. In the US, it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women.
What is the difference between having a colonoscopy and having a sigmoidoscopy?
In a sigmoidoscopy, only part of the colon is evaluated and you only need to do an enema prep. A sigmoidoscopy is less complete than a colonoscopy and, if a polyp is found during your sigmoidoscopy then you may need to return for a colonoscopy after taking an oral prep to allow for evaluation of the whole colon.
What is the difference between having a colonoscopy and having a virtual colonoscopy?
If your physician finds a polyp when they are doing your colonoscopy, it can most often be removed at that time. A virtual colonoscopy is an imaging test that uses X-rays and computers. If a polyp or other abnormality is discovered in a virtual colonoscopy, the patient must return for a colonoscopy to remove the polyp or polyps.
Why should I have a colonoscopy rather than a sigmoidoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, or Cologuard® test?
Having a colon cancer screening is better than no screening. Colonoscopy is the only test currently proven to detect and prevent colon cancer. Though sigmoidoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, and Cologuard® are alternative to screening, colonoscopy is the only screening with the ability to remove polyps therefore reducing the risk of colon cancer.
I’ve seen TV commercials for a test called Cologuard®. Is that a better option than a colonoscopy?
Cologuard® is a test that involves the collection and testing of a stool sample. While it does offer some benefits in cancer detection, it is not foolproof and offers no benefit in terms of cancer prevention. While less invasive than a colonoscopy, it is not as good at detecting precancerous polyps as a colonoscopy and, still requires a colonoscopy if positive.
What kind of doctor should perform my colonoscopy?
Gastroenterologists are highly trained specialists in performing colonoscopies. Colonoscopies performed by a gastroenterologist had a 65% reduction in risk for colorectal cancer mortality (death), compared with 57% when performed by a primary care provider and 45% when performed by a surgeon. (These results are from a study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine “Journal Watch.”)
Will I be awake during my colonoscopy?
Most patients choose to receive a sedative that makes them feel relaxed and drowsy. They are very comfortable and do not have much recollection of their colonoscopy. Occasionally, patients prefer not to receive medications and will be awake during their procedure.
Will it hurt?
Most patients do not experience pain. Some patients may feel some discomfort, such as cramping, but a common patient comment is, “My colonoscopy was very easy; it was the prep that was difficult!”
Will my colonoscopy be done in a private room?
Yes – absolutely.
What is a polyp?
A polyp is an abnormal growth on the wall of your colon or large intestine. Some are pre-cancerous. Polyps do not cause symptoms, which is one reason why colonoscopy is so important. Removing polyps can prevent colon cancer.
What happens if the doctor finds a polyp during my colonoscopy?
Your gastroenterologist will remove most polyps they find at the time of your colonoscopy. Very rarely a large polyp is found and further information is needed (with biopsies) before it can be safely removed.
How do I prepare for my colonoscopy?
Generally, preparation involves a diet of clear liquids for about a day and medications to cause diarrhea. Your gastroenterologist will give you specific guidelines about preparation.
What if my preparation for my colonoscopy isn’t thorough?
The goal of your prep is to have only clear/yellowish fluids in your large intestine so that your gastroenterologist can see the walls of your colon. Fecal matter in your colon makes it harder to examine and, therefore, harder to find any polyps. If your preparation doesn’t seem to be working, call us.
Can I go to work following my colonoscopy?
Usually, patients prefer to go home and rest. If you do not have drugs administered, you can generally return to work. However, all patients must have someone present at Portland Gastroenterology to accompany them when they leave and be the driver.
What are the common myths about Colon Cancer?
According to the American Cancer Society:
- Colorectal cancer is a man’s disease. Not true.
- Colorectal cancer cannot be prevented. Not true.
- It’s better not to get tested for colorectal cancer because it’s deadly anyway. Not true.