Colonoscopy

The colonoscopy procedure is considered the standard for cancer screening and for the diagnosis and treatment of other colon conditions. This procedure allows a doctor to evaluate the inside of your colon (also known as the large bowel or intestine) with a four-foot flexible tube that has a camera and light at the end. If you have been experiencing any strange symptoms such as rectal bleeding, chronic constipation/diarrhea, your doctor may recommend that you go see a gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy to check for irregularities.

Why Do I Need a Colonoscopy?

At GastroCare of El Paso, we complete colonoscopies for a number of reasons, including determining the cause of symptoms associated with your large intestine. Although it is typically used when you already are experiencing undesirable symptoms, this procedure can also be used as a preventative measure for colon cancer.

A colonoscopy can be used to assist with the diagnosis and treatment of the following symptoms:

• Blood in the stool
• Narrowed stools
• Unexplained anemia
• Change in bowel habits
• Rectal bleeding
• Unusual weight loss
• Continuing fatigue

What to Expect Before & During the Procedure

Before the colonoscopy procedure takes place, our El Paso gastroenterologist will provide you with special dietary instructions, including fasting the day before the exam and taking a laxative solution. The colon must be prepped in a very specific way to ensure a thorough and accurate examination.

A colonoscopy only takes about 45 minutes or less, depending on your colon and any specific condition the doctor may suspect. If your doctor detects any polyps during the procedure, we may decide to remove it at that time. You will be put under sedation and need to have a reliable ride home as you will not be able to operate a vehicle.