COLONOSCOPY
WHAT
IS COLONSCOPY?
Colonscopy
is the visual examination of the lining of the large intestine
(colon) and rectum. The purpose of the exam is to identify
any abnormalities by inserting a flexible fibre-optic tube
into the anus. The tube, which is about the thickness of your
finger, is slowly passed into the rectum and colon.
The
results obtained from colonscopy are useful in diagnosing
and treating a variety of symptoms and diseases.
The colon must be thoroughly clean in order for the exam to
be accurate and complete. Usually, this consists of drinking
a large volume of a solution that flushes the colon clean.
Your physician will provide you with information about cleansing
instructions.
HOW
DO I PREPARE FOR THE EXAM?
The
colon must be thoroughly clean in order for the exam to be
accurate and complete. Usually, this consists of drinking
a large volume of a solution that flushes the colon clean.
Your physician will provide you with information about cleansing
instructions.
WHAT
HAPPENS DURING COLONOSCOPY?
A
needle will be placed in your arm vein through which medication
will be injected to help you feel relaxed and sleepy. While
you are lying on your left side, the flexible colonoscope
will be inserted, and the tube will be moved through the colon.
If
there is an abnormal growth (polyp), it will be removed by
applying electrical heat (electrocautery) through the colonoscope.
A small tissue specimen (biopsy) may be taken from the lining
of the colon for microscopic analysis. Neither test will cause
you any discomfort.
WHAT
CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE EXAM?
Due
to the medication, you will probably feel drowsy for a period
of time. You will not be allowed to drive an automobile or
use potentially dangerous machinery until the next morning.
Your doctor will discuss the findings of the exam and provide
you with instructions to follow when you return home. Ask
the doctor or nurse if you have any questions.
INSTRUCTIONS
FOR COLONOSCOPY & PREP
Read
carefully. Do not exceed recommended dosage as serious side
effects may occur. Please read all instructions at least two
days before your colonoscopy. Your physician may adjust your
dosage schedule.
·
Do not take anti-coagulants, Coumadin, aspirin or any anti-
inflammatory medication (such as Motrin or Advil) for one
week before the procedure. You may use Tylenol if needed.
· If you take anticoagulants (blood thinners), have
a heart murmur, or have been advised to take antibiotics before
dental work, please call for special instructions at least
5 days before your appointment.
· You may take your regular medications before the
procedure with a sip of water except for insulin or other
diabetic medications which may be taken after the procedure.
· If a polyp is removed, do not take anticoagulants
(Coumadin), aspirin or any anti-inflammatory medication for
one week after the procedure.
ESCORT:
It is likely that sedating medication will be given for your
colonoscopy, and you may be drowsy for quite a while. For
your safety, we cannot perform the examination unless someone
is here to accompany you home afterwards.
2
DAYS BEFORE EXAMINATION:
You
will need to obtain two (2) 1½ fl.oz. bottles of Fleet
Phospho -Soda at any pharmacy. Also, buy 1 Fleet enema.
NOTE:
Individual responses to laxatives do vary. This prep may cause
multiple bowel movements. Often works within 30 minutes, but
may take as long as 3 hours.
DAY
BEFORE EXAMINATION:
Stay
on clear liquids by mouth. (Nothing after midnight except
medications). Clear liquids include: strained fruit juices
without pulp (apple, white grape, and lemonade), water, clear
broth or bouillon, coffee or tea (without milk or non-dairy
creamer). All of the following that NOT colored red or purple:
Gatorade, carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks, Jello
(without added fruits or toppings), and ice popsicles.
At
7:00 PM, take the 1½ fl. oz. of Fleet Phospho-Soda
with 3 glasses of water. It may be added to Gatorade.
DAY
OF EXAMINATION:
Nothing
after midnight by mouth except medications.
At
6:00 AM, or at least 3 hours before your test, take another
1 ½ fl. oz. of Fleet Phospho - Soda with 3 glasses
of water and one Fleet enema per rectum.
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