NORTH BAY GENERAL SURGERY

What is a Colonoscopy? 

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic test in which a long thin camera is inserted through the rectum into the colon. It allows the physician to view the colon, take biopsies of the colon, or to remove any polyps.

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Why would a Colonoscopy be done? 

There are many reasons why your doctor would recommend a colonoscopy:

• As a screening test for colorectal cancer

• Assess abdominal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain or rectal bleeding

• It also may be done prior to another abdominal surgery

 

What are the risks of Colonoscopy?  

Colonoscopy is considered a safe procedure; but as with all medical procedures it carries some risks:

• Perforation (or puncture) of the colon – occurs approximately 1 in 2000 persons. It may require surgery to repair or be managed by antibiotic and intravenous fluids

• Bleeding, usually following the removal of a polyp – occurs approximately 1 in 500 persons. This bleeding usually stops on its own but may require a second procedure.

• Reactions to anesthetic – you will be sedated for the procedure (general anesthetic is not used) and reactions to this anesthetic is rare.

• Reaction to the bowel preparation recommended by your doctor. This includes nausea, vomiting, bloating etc.

 

What if my colonoscopy shows something abnormal?

During your colonoscopy if something is found, various interventions may be performed:

• Biopsy: This is when your doctor takes a small sample of the colon lining which is then sent to the hospital laboratory for further analysis

• Bleeding: If areas of bleeding are identified, your doctor may control the bleeding by injecting medications, cauterization (sealing of bleeding vessels with heat treatment) or by use of small clips.

• Polyps: Polyps are abnormal growths in the colon lining that are usually benign (non-cancerous). These are removed and sent to the hospital laboratory for analysis. You should feel no pain upon removal

 

Your doctor will review any abnormal findings with you either following the procedure or in a future follow-up visit at their office.

 

What Bowel Preparation do I need to do?  

Prior to having a colonoscopy done, your bowel must first be completely cleaned out so that your doctor can thoroughly examine it. Your doctor will determine the appropriate bowel preparation for you. Do not start the bowel preparation for your procedure until you have spoken to your surgeon or referring doctor.

 

You also need to arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital as you will not be allowed to drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours after being sedated.

 

 Sometimes the bowel prep is less effective in some individuals with specific medical conditions or those that are on certain medications. If this applies to you, your doctor will instruct you on an alternative bowel prep. Make sure you inform your doctor if:

• You are generally constipated

• You have previous had an unsuccessful bowel prep prior to colonoscopy

• You are taking an opiates or narcotic medication

 

 

Helpful Hints and Tips

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• Some people may develop nausea and vomiting during the prep. The best remedy for this is to take a break from drinking fluids for 30 min and then resume drinking at a slower rate.

• Chill any liquids to make them easier to drink

• Walking around your house can assist to reduce bloating during the bowel prep.

• Use baby wipes instead of toilet paper

• Apply some Vaseline or diaper rash cream to buttocks prior to beginning the prep and reapply as needed

• Remain close to toilet facilities as multiple bowel movements will occur once you have started your bowel prep diet.           

 

Complications

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Complications are rare. Please call your doctor or proceed to the nearest Emergency Department if any of these symptoms occur.

• Severe abdominal pain

• Fever or chills

• Bleeding via rectum that does not stop

• Any other symptom that may concern you

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Diet

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Your doctor may recommend low fiber diet 7 days prior to your colonoscopy. Here is a list of recommended and not recommended foods to eat.

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Recommended Foods

• Yogurt, Milk, Cheese

• White bread, pasta, or rice

• Meat, poultry, fish, eggs

• Cooked/Steamed vegetables

• Canned Fruits

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Foods to Avoid

• Any fiber supplements

• Whole grains (brown bread, whole grain pasta/rice)

• Oatmeal

• Raw fruits or berries; avoid any that contain seeds (jam)

• Raw vegetables; avoid any that contain seeds (tomatoes, cucumbers)

• Anything containing nuts or seeds

• Popcorn

• Corn

 

Instructions for preparation for colonoscopy: Please do not start any prep without first speaking with your surgeon or referring doctor.

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Instructions for having both a colonoscopy and gastroscopy: Please do not start any prep without first speaking with your surgeon.