A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure performed by a gastroenterologist. It is used to view the inside of your colon, to check for abnormalities like polyps and other growths, and to detect early signs of colon cancer. Dr. Stephen Buto in Honolulu, HI, offers comprehensive gastroenterology services, including colonoscopies.
How Having a Colonoscopy Can Benefit You
Colonoscopies are common screening procedures, and you should have your first colonoscopy by the time you are 45 years old. Your gastroenterologist may also recommend a colonoscopy if you are experiencing chronic:
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in your stool
- Constipation or diarrhea
It’s important to prepare for a colonoscopy by emptying your colon. This enables your gastroenterologist to obtain a clearer view of colon walls. To empty your colon, your gastroenterologist will place you on a liquid diet and provide laxatives to clean out your colon. You should also avoid taking blood-thinning medications, including aspirin, in the days before your procedure.
You will be sedated for your procedure, so it’s important to bring someone with you to drive you home after your procedure. The procedure itself will take about 45 minutes. You should plan on spending 2 to 3 hours in the facility, to recover from sedation.
During the colonoscopy, a thin, flexible tube is inserted into the rectum and guided up into the colon. The tube contains a camera attached to one end, which allows the gastroenterologist to view the colon.
Abnormal tissue or polyps can be removed and sent for a biopsy to determine if any abnormal cells are present. The results of your colonoscopy may be made available to you after the procedure, or in a few days if a biopsy was needed.
Want To Know More About a Colonoscopy?
To find out more about why you might need a colonoscopy and how to prepare for the procedure, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Buto in Honolulu, HI. You can reach him in the office by calling (808) 524-7676, so call today.