Colonoscopy
The best way to detect colon polyps (a growth in the intestines) or colon cancer is through a procedure called a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube with a tiny light and camera on it called a colonoscope. The colonoscope is inserted into the anus and advanced through the colon. The doctor can see the lining of your large intestine as well as the rectal area and identify tissue problems, polyps, and other abnormalities that may require surgery or further treatment. Any tissue samples or polyps will be sent to our pathologist for review. You should receive your results in approximately one week.
The procedure can take anywhere from 30-60 minutes to complete. For this test to be accurate, there are bowel preparations that need to be completed prior to your procedure. We ask that you complete all preparations so that you can have a thorough and accurate examination.
Please refer to your bowel preparation instructions below:
- Clear Liquid Diet
- Low Fiber Diet
- Colonoscopy Miralax®/Gatorade® Prep
- Colonoscopy 2 Day Miralax®/Gatorade® Prep
- Colonoscopy Suprep® Instructions
- Colonoscopy 2 Day Suprep® Instructions
- Colonoscopy NuLYTETY® Instructions
- Colonoscopy NuLYTELY® Double Instructions
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Instructions
Colorectal Cancer Screening
It is recommended by the CDC that you should be screened for colorectal cancer between the ages of 45-75. Speak with your doctor about when to begin screenings and which test is right for you. Contact your insurance provider to ensure the screening is covered before moving forward with a scheduled date and time. Depending on your plan and eligibility, screenings may also be covered by your health insurance policy without a deductible or co-pay.
For information about the different testing options, check here.
