Elk Valley Medical Clinic

Colonoscopy

1. What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is the insertion of a long flexible tube, about the thickness of a finger. It is inserted in the rectum and into the large bowel (colon) and allows the doctor to examine the lining of the colon. This usually takes 20-30 minutes. If the doctor feels that it is necessary, she/he can pass an instrument through the colonoscope and take a small piece of tissue (a Biopsy) for examination in the lab.

2. What is a polypectomy?

During the colonoscopy, a polyp may be found. Polyps are abnormal growths of tissue that vary in size from tiny dots to several centimeters. If your doctor feels that it is necessary, she/he will pass a wire loop (snare) around the polyp to remove it from the wall of the bowel. You should feel no pain during the polyp removal.

3. What should you expect during the procedure?

Your doctor will give you medications through an intravenous in your vein to make you relaxed and sleepy. A colonoscope will be inserted through the rectum and advanced through the colon. The lining of the colon will be examined. There may be some discomfort or cramping during the colonoscopy, however, the procedure is usually well tolerated and rarely causes pain.

4. What happens after the colonoscopy?

You will be observed in the endoscopy unit until the effects of the medications have worn off. Recovery usually takes 60 minutes. You may feel bloated as a result of air that is introduced into the colon during the procedure. You will be able to resume your regular diet after the colonoscopy unless instructed otherwise. You are legally impaired for 24 hours and cannot drive for 24 hours. It is not advised to travel out-of-country within 14 days after this procedure. If you have severe abdominal pain, proceed to the nearest Emergency Department.

5. Are there complications from colonoscopy or polypectomy?

Colonoscopy and polypectomy are safe and associated with very low risk when performed by physicians who have been specifically trained in these procedures. Complications do occur in 1 in 2,000 patients, however.

Possible Complications

Perforation – a tear through the wall of the bowel that may allow leakage of intestinal fluids. This is a rare complication and occurs in less than 0.1% of patients. The complication usually requires surgery, but in some cases can be managed with antibiotics and intravenous fluids.

Bleeding – may occur from the site of biopsy or polyp removal. It is usually minor and will stop on its own. In rare cases, blood transfusions or surgery may be required. The risk is less than 1%.

Localized Irritation of the Vein – may occur at the site of medication injection. A tender lump may develop and remain for several weeks or months, it will eventually resolve.

Other Potential Risks: may include drug reactions and complications from unrelated diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Death is extremely rare but remains a very remote possibility. If you experience any problems after the procedure, please contact your physician’s office or go to your nearest emergency department.

A Comprehensive Range of Specialized Procedures

FAQS ABOUT OUR PROCEDURES

Colonoscopy

Possible Complications

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A Comprehensive Range of Specialized Procedures

FAQS ABOUT OUR PROCEDURES

Colonoscopy

Possible Complications

Downloads

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