This overview is a sample of the type of information available to you at Griffin Hospital's Community Health Resource Center. It is not intended to replace your physician's instructions in the management of your health problems, but to better inform you about a particular illness and alert you to the availability of other materials. If you have a question about any piece of information presented in theses fact sheets, please call your physician, or stop by the Community Health Resource Center at your convenience.

COLONOSCOPY

(Sigmoidoscopy, Proctosigmoidoscopy, Lower G.I. Endoscopy)

Colonoscopy is a procedure which is done to help the doctor examine the inside of your colon (large intestine). It is done with an instrument called a colonoscope – a thin, flexible tube which is passed through your rectum. The colonoscope acts as a flashlight to light up the inside of your colon, allowing your doctor to see the inside walls of the colon and check for anything unusual or irregular. A colonoscopy is often recommended for people have problems with intestinal bleeding, pain, or diarrhea when more information is needed. It can detect abnormal growths, such as tumors or polyps, narrowings and obstructions, or inflammatory diseases of the intestinal lining, such as diverticulitis and ulcerative colitis.

You will be asked to avoid eating solid food for 24 hours before the colonoscopy and to drink only clear liquids (such as clear broth, jello, and apple juice). Laxatives and/or enemas may be given to help clean out your colon before the test. The night before the exam, you will be asked to not eat or drink anything.

The test will be performed in a hospital or outpatient setting by a doctor who specializes in problems of the intestinal tract. For a sigmoidoscopy, only the lower part of the colon near the rectum is examined. This procedure takes about 15-20 minutes. For a colonoscopy, the entire length of the colon is examined, which can take up to an hour or longer.

You will be asked to lie on your side for the procedure. After a lubricant is applied, the colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and then advanced into the colon. To help with the insertion of the tube, air may be used to expand the colon, or you may be asked to move in different positions. There is often a feeling of cramping, gas pains, or the urge to empty your bowels. Deep breathing can sometimes help relieve discomfort. Sedatives may also be given intravenously (IV) to help you relax during the procedure.

Flexible instruments can be inserted through the colonoscope to perform other procedures if appropriate. Samples of tissue from inside the colon may be obtained and sent to the lab for more testing. Abnormal growths, or polyps may be removed. When everything is done, the tube is removed. You will be able to eat and drink as soon as the sedation has worn off but you should have someone drive you home.

A small amount of blood in the stool is not uncommon after the procedure, but if you notice heavy bleeding or have severe abdominal pain or fever, notify your nurse.

Please note that this information is intended to give you a general overview of the topic. It is not intended to replace advice or instruction of a health professional. We recommend that you consult your physician, nurse, or qualified health professional regarding the information in this publication. © 1994 Planetree, Inc. Reproduction of this material in any form is limited to license agreement.

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