A Colonoscopy is a medical procedure to check the large intestine for early signs of cancer, abnormal growths, ulcers, or any abnormalities in the colon. During a colonoscopy a long, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end is inserted into the rectum and guided through the large intestine. Pain relievers and a mild sedative may be administered for comfort. There is also a non-invasive virtual colonoscopy, which uses x-rays and computers to produce the images and display them on a screen. Virtual colonscopies do not provide as much detail as the conventional colonscopies and also during a conventional colonscopy a doctor can remove any polyps or take tissue samples which is not possible during the virtual type.

1. Types: Conventional and Virtual
2. Reasons for procedure: diagnose cancer, lower intestinal bleeding, change in bowel habits, remove polyps, obtain tissue samples
3. Will be asked to sign a consent form
4. Will need to stop taking aspirin or iron supplements 7 to 14 days before test
5. Procedure may be done in a doctor's office, clinic or hospital
6. Used to screen for colorectal cancer
7. Will lie on left side
8. Takes 15 to 30 min
9. Most report little or no discomfort during the procedure
10. Pre-diet and laxatives needed to cleanse the colon
11. Sometimes requires an enema
12. after the test you will be observed for 1 or 2 hours
13. Sometimes causes gas and abdominal cramping afterwards
14. Possible complications: bleeding, perforation of the bowel
15. No hospital stay

Disclaimer: The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before beginning any Colonoscopy program.