What to Expect
Preparation
Preparing for a colonoscopy screening begins 24 hours before the test, with a completely liquid diet and a laxative solution administered in divided doses. This preparation is designed to clean the colon for better viewing. Staying well hydrated with juices, jello and broth helps make the process more comfortable.
During the Procedure
The colonoscopy takes an average of 20 to 30 minutes to complete. Patients receive a sedation medication through an IV that allows them to relax but remain awake during the procedure in order to respond to instructions. Most patients have no memory of the procedure after it is over.
A flexible tube, roughly the size of an index finger, is used to view the inside walls of the colon. Air is gently inserted to inflate the walls for better viewing. The colonoscopy reveals polyps or growths along the lining of the colon, as well as any inflammation, ulcerations or diverticula (pockets) along the surface. The doctor is able to take photos of any abnormalities and remove small polyps during the procedure.
Patients are given time to recover after the colonoscopy, around 20 to 30 minutes. There may be some residual gas and minor cramping from the air that was inserted into the colon. Due to the sedation, patients must have someone drive them home from the procedure.
After the Procedure
Results are available immediately after the colonoscopy and patients are often sent home with a copy of their results. Any tissue samples or polyps that were removed will be sent to test for cancer or abnormalities, with results available within 72 hours.
Source: American Cancer Society