Colonoscopy in Connecticut
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Find a ProviderWhat is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure during which a long, slender, flexible tube or “scope” is positioned into the anus and advanced through the entire colon (large intestine). The scope has a light and a camera on the end of it, which allows the GI provider to explore the interior of the colon. A colonoscopy might be carried out to identify the reason for gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, bowl in the stool, abdominal pain, or uncommon x-ray findings.
A colonoscopy may also be conducted on an asymptomatic patient at age 45 or sooner, based on the patient’s history, to screen for colon cancer and growths. As chief experts in gut wellness, the board-certified GI providers at Connecticut GI frequently perform colonoscopy procedures. Please contact us to learn more about colonoscopies in Connecticut.
What are the benefits of a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is the most vital safeguard against developing colon cancer, so it’s crucial to have a colonoscopy as your GI doctor recommends. Preventive colon cancer screenings can offer many advantages for your GI and overall health. Some, but not all, of the benefits of colonoscopy exams include the following:
- Identifies and excises precancerous polyps
- Diagnoses diverticulosis, IBD, and additional GI issues
- Discovers beginning signs of colorectal cancer
- Provides the prevailing testing option for colon and rectal cancer
- Could be a life-saving exam
With the help of advancing technology, colonoscopies are executed more conveniently, with less discomfort, and with greater precision than in previous years.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
You will receive instructions from your provider at Connecticut GI regarding the vital bowel preparation to prepare you for your procedure. Most individuals are asked to drink only clear fluids the entire 24 hours before the procedure. There are several different alternatives for laxatives to completely clean out the colon. It is vital to follow the instructions given to you by your provider. There may also be extra instructions about your prescriptions. In most instances, your medications will be continued as normal. Be that as it may, in some instances, specifically in patients on blood thinners (i.e., Coumadin®, warfarin, Plavix®, aspirin, anti-inflammatories) and in diabetics, special instructions will be provided. Patients will be advised not to take anything by mouth following midnight except for prescriptions.
You may be directed to come to the endoscopy facility 1 – 1.5 hours prior to your exam. This is to allow for time to fill out documentation and prepare for the colonoscopy. You will be directed to wear a hospital robe. An intravenous (IV) catheter will be started in your arm so that medication can be administered. You will be attached to a monitor that will enable your provider and staff to watch your heartbeat, arterial pressure, electrocardiogram, respiratory rate, and oxygen concentration throughout and following the colonoscopy.
Once in the procedure room, you will be instructed to position yourself on your left side on the gurney. The IV sedation will be given. Small quantities are administered to help ensure your protection and provide just the quantity you require personally. Once a sufficient quantity of sedation is reached, the provider will do a rectal examination. The colonoscope will then be lightly inserted through the anus. The scope will be attentively advanced throughout the colon to where the small intestine and colon meet. A small level of air is pumped using the scope and inside the colon to allow the provider to see the interior of the colon. Any liquid leftover in the colon following the preparation can be cleaned and suctioned out through the scope.
Depending on the outcome of the test, several things may be performed during the procedure, like biopsies, the extraction of tumors, and the management of bleeding. After the procedure, as much of the air and remaining liquid as possible is absorbed out of the colon through the scope. Depending on the outcome, the procedure takes approximately 15 – 30 minutes.
After the exam is finished, you will be taken to the recovery room to be supervised while the sedation starts to leave your system. The amount of medication used for the duration of the exam and your individual response to the sedation will dictate how rapidly you will regain consciousness. However, the majority of people are conscious enough for dismissal in about 45 – 60 minutes.
You will not be advised to operate a vehicle for the remainder of the afternoon following your colonoscopy with our Connecticut staff. As a result, you will be required to have a ride home. You will also be ordered not to go to work, sign essential documents, or do physical activities for the rest of the day. The majority of people are able to eat and consume liquids normally after their dismissal from the endoscopy facility, although personalized instructions in regard to exercise, eating, and medications will be provided prior to discharge.
When will I get my colonoscopy results?
After the procedure, the specialist and/or nurse will review the findings of the exam with you. The majority of individuals will not recall what they are informed after the test due to the effects of the IV drug. It is advised, if practical, to take someone with you to whom the findings can also be discussed. You may also return home with a printed report. You will likely be notified of any biopsy results generally within one week.
What are the alternatives to a colonoscopy?
To a certain degree, the other alternatives to the test will depend on why the colonoscopy is needed in the first place. In most cases, a colonoscopy is the most ideal approach to evaluate and address deformities in the colon. Though different x-rays can measure the colon, including a barium enema or virtual CT scan. These are, however, only diagnostic exams. Handling abnormalities will require a colonoscopy or an operation.
Are there any risks with a colonoscopy?
Generally, a colonoscopy is a very safe test. Overall, complications appear in less than 1% of people. The majority of complications are not grave. Although, if a problem arises, it may need hospitalization and an operation. Prior to the exam, a permission document will be gone over with the patient by the nursing personnel. If any inquiries or problems emerge, these can be discussed with your specialist before starting the procedure.
Medicine responses associated with sedation can arise. These can contain but are not restricted to, allergic reactions, issues breathing, impacts on the circulatory system and blood pressure, and irritation of the vein employed to deliver the medication.
Bleeding can occur with biopsies and the withdrawal of polyps. Again, substantial bleeding, which could need a blood donation or hospitalization, is uncommon. Be that as it may, bleeding can occur during the procedure or up to two weeks after the exam if a growth is eliminated.
Penetration or puncture of the bowel can transpire. This can be found during the procedure, or may not be evident until later in the day. In most circumstances, a penetration will require an operation and hospitalization. This is an unusual complication, even when tumors are withdrawn.
It is extremely important that you call your provider's facility immediately if symptoms arise after the procedure, such as worsening abdominal discomfort, bleeding, or fever.
Like most other tests, a colonoscopy is not foolproof. There is a slight, acknowledged risk that abnormalities, like growths and cancers, can remain unidentified during the exam. It is essential to maintain appointments with your specialist at Connecticut GI as instructed and inform them of any new or lasting symptoms.
Colonoscopy FAQs
At what age is it time to schedule your colonoscopy exam?
We suggest that individuals at average odds of colon cancer begin having colon cancer screenings when they turn 45. If your risk of colon cancer is higher or you have distressing symptoms of colon cancer, you may need a colon cancer screening earlier than 45.
After 45, when is it suggested you schedule colon cancer screenings?
Doctors recommend receiving a colon cancer screening every decade for those with average risk, good health, and normal charts. After your exam, your GI doctor will let you know how often you should undergo colon cancer exams from here on out.
Is a colonoscopy a painful exam?
Sedation options are provided prior to your colonoscopy to help ensure your comfort while undergoing the screening. Depending on the medication, many patients experience an intensely relaxed state or even become sleepy, and many individuals have little-to-no recollection of the procedure. Don’t hesitate to talk with your colonoscopy doctor about what you should expect at your consult.
What’s the average recovery period for a colonoscopy?
On average, it takes around a day to recover from your colonoscopy, and most patients can return to their everyday activities the following day. It is common for you to experience a bit of abdominal irritation after a colon cancer screening, such as cramping and bloating. Our Connecticut GI providers will provide more info on what to expect during your recovery.
The gold standard for colon cancer screening
A colonoscopy is considered the “gold standard” of all screening approaches for colorectal cancer. Unlike many testing systems, a colonoscopy allows for the study of the full colon. As well as offering the most comprehensive examination, it also allows for the exposure of growths and their extraction in just one procedure. For many different screening approaches, the capacity to remove growths is not accessible, and if such an exam was to return positive for polyps, you would potentially then require a colonoscopy. You can schedule a colonoscopy in Connecticut by contacting our location nearest you. A regular colonoscopy just might be the key to protecting your well-being. If you would like to know more about having a colonoscopy, contact a Connecticut GI location today.
Colonoscopy Videos
Reviews
I was seen byDr. Bloom's PA, Anna Housman, on 10/31 for pre colonoscopy check. She was very professional and friendly. Everything went smoothly.
There is not a lot of face-to-face interaction between patient and physician for a colonoscopy, but what you get with John Frese rates 5-stars. He has the kind of presence that inspires confidence. His medical support staff and facilities are top-notch. HIs front office admin staff were super helpful when my prescription needed to be changed. Great practice overall.
He is exceptional! Dr Ionello is calm, approachable,patient and a good listener. He explained everything that was going to happen for the colonoscopy and the hope for the information it would provide.
Dr. Einstein was great! My colonoscopy was over and done with before I even knew it. Completely easy and painless. He took the time to explain the procedure and answer all of my questions.
Had pre-procedure eval for endoscopy/colonoscopy with Kristen D'Alfonso (spelling). Very positive experience, professional and knowledgeable. Just one of many positive experiences with CTGI!!!
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