A colonoscopy is a test to look at the inside of your lower digestive tract (colon and rectum). Sometimes it can show the last part of the small intestine (ileum). During the test, small pieces of tissue may be removed for testing. This is called a biopsy. Small growths, such as polyps, can also be removed.
Why is colonoscopy done?
The test is done to help look for colon cancer. And it can help find the source of abdominal pain, bleeding, and changes in bowel habits. It may be needed once a year to every 10 years, depending on factors such as your:
Risks and possible complications
Getting ready
If your provider ordered a colonoscopy for you, read the following instructions:
If you have any questions or wish to reschedule your procedure, please call 202-745-8523.
After drinking the solution, it usually takes about 30-60 minutes for a bowel movement to begin.
What do they use to put you out for a colonoscopy?
At Yale Medicine, anesthesiologists caring for patients who want deep sedation before their colonoscopy usually use a drug called propofol. “It is a short-acting anesthetic that has the advantage of wearing off relatively quickly,†explains Dr. Rock out.
What kind of anesthesia is used for a colonoscopy? Usually, either moderate sedation or deep sedation with the anesthetic propofol is used for colonoscopies. An anesthesiologist is sometimes present for moderate sedation – sometimes referred to as conscious sedation by patients, although the term is technically incorrect.
How is anesthesia administered for colonoscopy?
When you go for a colonoscopy, you will usually be given some type of anesthesia to help you manage the discomfort. Today, more people are getting deep sedation with propofol before the colonoscopy, which helps them fall asleep quickly and wake up quickly.
Are you fully put to sleep for a colonoscopy?
You will not be completely unconscious, but you will sleep through the procedure and probably have no memory of it. The drug commonly used for deep sedation is propofol, which is not an opioid. It works quickly, wears quickly and is safe for most patients.
Who is in the room during a colonoscopy?
Your doctor and nurse are always in the room. The procedure usually takes about 20-45 minutes. The amount of time will depend on how well your home preparation worked, the length of your colon, and how many polyps were found and removed. How comfortable you feel will also affect how long the procedure takes.
Will You Get a Urinary Catheter During a Colonoscopy? You may need a catheter (fine plastic drainage tube) placed in your anterior passage to drain urine from your bladder until you are able to pass urine on your own. You may be given an appointment to visit the surgical outpatient clinic about a month after your discharge from the hospital for a check-up.
What position is the patient in during a colonoscopy?
Most colonoscopies are performed in the left lateral (LL) position, but in cases of suboptimal caecal preparation, changing the patient’s position to supine (S) and, if necessary, to right lateral (RL) improves caecal intubation speed, mucosal visibility and adenoma detection.
Does someone have to stay with you during a colonoscopy?
The major advantage is that the patient recovers immediately after the procedure and can immediately start working or driving. They don’t need anyone to escort them home. It also eliminates the potential complications that can occur with any type of anesthesia.
Can you wear a tampon during colonoscopy?
Can I have a colonoscopy if I have my period? Yes, having your period will not affect your test. If you find that more comfortable, you can wear a tampon on the day of your test. A tampon can be left in place during the test, but a sanitary napkin will need to be removed.
What if I have my period during a colonoscopy? I have a menstrual period. Do I have to reschedule my colonoscopy appointment? A: No. Your period will not affect your doctor’s ability to complete your procedure.
Do you have to wear a tampon during a colonoscopy?
Can I still have the colonoscopy? Yes, the procedure can still be performed while you have your period. If possible, we request that you do not use a tampon.
