MEDICAL Services
Endoscopy
ENDOSCOPY CENTER AT THE ELLIOT HOSPITAL
Colonoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible tube called a colonoscope is inserted through the rectum and advanced into the colon.
This procedure is performed to determine the presence and severity of any abnormalities in the colon.
-To further clarify any abnormality that may have been detected by X ray.
-To remove polyps or take biopsies, if indicated.
-To re-examine the colon after treatment for disease, to rule out a reoccurrence of disease, and/or to evaluate the healing process.
-For evaluation of rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, prolonged diarrhea and/or changes in bowel habits/irregularity.
-To screen for early detection of colon diseases or malignancies, especially in high risk persons such as:
• Those who have had previous surgery for malignancies.
• Persons with long-standing colitis (inflammatory bowel disease)
• Those who have a family history of colon cancer
Preparing For Your Colonoscopy
- Follow your physician's specific instructions for bowel preparation. This may include a clear liquid diet the day before, and fasting prior to your scheduled procedure, as well as suppositories, enemas, or other laxatives.
- If you take any medications or insulin therapy, please consult your physician about whether to take them prior to your procedure. Some examples are aspirin, arthritic medications, anticoagulants (blood thinners) or iron products.
- Notify your physician of any allergies to medication, as well as any need for antibiotic therapy prior to procedures, treatments, or dental work.
- Arrange for a family member or friend to take you home after your procedure. You will be medicated for this procedure and will not be able to drive for 24 hours. Your procedure may be canceled if you fail to bring a responsible driver .
- Please bring the completed outpatient questionnaire with you when you come to the hospital.
Please register at the outpatient desk one hour before your appointment, regardless of whether you preregistered. If you need to cancel your appointment, please call your doctor at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time of your Colonoscopy.
Outpatient registration will direct you to the Endoscopy Center.
You will need to sign a consent form for this procedure. (If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must accompany you and sign the consent form). Relatives will not be permitted to stay in the endoscopy area, but will be notified when the procedure is completed.
The endoscopy nursing staff will answer questions regarding your procedure, and will be with you throughout the procedure to assist you and your physician.
The colonoscopy is performed with you lying on your left side with your knees bent.
Medication will be given intravenously to relax you and make you as comfortable as possible. As standard procedure, your heart rate will be monitored throughout the colonoscopy.
The colonoscope will be inserted into the rectum and then guided through the entire length of the colon for complete examination.
You may experience cramping sensations with the introduction of air into your colon or when the colonoscope is maneuvered around bends in your colon. Your physician will make every effort to minimize discomfort. The procedure takes approximately 15 – 20 minutes, but may differ for each patient.
Any abnormalities will be identified, biopsies will be taken, polyps removed, and appropriate treatment will be performed as necessary. Biopsy and polyp removal are painless. All samples are then forwarded to the laboratory for analysis. Your physician will call you with results in three to four days.
If you are an outpatient, you will recover in the Endoscopy Center until the effects of the medication have worn off. If you are an inpatient, a nurse will take you back to your room.
You may feel “bloated” and have some cramping for a short while after the procedure, caused by the air that was introduced into the colon during the examination. Expelling the air will ease the discomfort.
You may keep your regular diet, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
Upon being discharged from the hospital, if you have any questions or concerns, be sure to call your doctor or Nurse On-Call at (603) 663-4567 to speak with a nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The risk of complications from a colonoscopy (and polypectomy) is rare, but there are potential problems, such as perforation of the colon, hemorrhage (excessive bleeding), or adverse reactions to medication used for this procedure. Drowsiness is to be expected after the procedure. Your physician will discuss possible complications with you before your procedure.
We hope this information helps you understand and prepare for your colonoscopy. If you have questions prior to your appointment, please call Nurse On-Call at (603) 663-4567 or your physician.
Remember to wear comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure and to bring:
- Completed Outpatient Questionnaire
- A family member or friend to drive you home
- Eye Glasses (or Contacts)
- Hearing Aids
