Colonoscopy

During colonoscopy, a flexible fiberoptic tube (colonscope) is passed through the rectum into the lower intestinal tract. This procedure allows the doctor to examine the lining of the rectum and the large intestine (colon) and to identify any abnormalities.

Eyeglasses must be removed prior to the procedure. You may prefer to remove dentures and contact lenses at this time.

You will be asked to sign a consent form authorizing the doctor to perform the procedure.

Please let the doctor and the GI nurse know if you are allergic to any medicine.

A needle for intravenous (IV) medicines will be placed in your arm vein before the procedure. Medicine will be injected through this needle that will make you sleepy and relaxed.

As you lie on your left side, the doctor will examine your rectum with a gloved lubricated finger. Then he will insert the lubricated flexible colonscope, which will give you a mild sensation of wanting to move your bowels. As the colonscope is carefully advanced through the colon, the doctor will examine the bowel lining thoroughly. You may feel some cramping or gas due to the air, which the doctor is putting into the colon. You may be asked to change positions during the procedure to assist in passage of the colonscope. Occasionally fluoroscopy (x-ray) is used for short periods of time.

Often a biopsy specimen (a tiny bit of tissue) is taken for microscope examination. If you have a polyp, it may be removed by electrocautery through the colonscope. You will not feel any sensation or discomfort when the biopsy is performed or the polyp is removed.

Many people do not recall any of the procedure because of the effect of the medicine. After the procedure, you will probably feel drowsy and may sleep for a short time. You may feel some bloating from the air inserted during the procedure. You will feel more comfortable if you expel this air.

Before you leave, the doctor will discuss the findings with you. The GI nurse or technician will give you instructions to follow when you get home.

Colonoscopy with biopsy or polypectomy is associated with low risk when performed by a physician who has been specially trained and is experienced in the procedure.

If you have any questions please feel tree to ask the doctor, the GI nurse or technician.

Instructions For Colonoscopy Preparation

1. You will need to obtain a three (3) fluid oz. bottle of Fleet Phospho-Soda (Ginger-Lemon flavor or unflavored) at any pharmacy. **A prescription is not necessary**. Which is 6 tablespoons. Do not exceed the recommended dosage given in instructions, as serious side effects may occur.
2. Begin clear liquid diet the day before (all day) and remain on this diet until midnight of the evening prior to the colonoscopy. HAVE NOTHING TO EAT OR DRINK BETWEEN MIDNIGHT AND YOUR PROCEDURE (EXCEPT FOR STEP #4). The preferred clear liquid is Gatorade.
3. At 6:00 pm the day before procedure, pour one (1) measuring tablespoon of Fleets Phospho-soda into 8 ounces of Gatorade and drink, repeat in 10 minutes, repeat again in 10 minutes.
4. (3 1/2) hours before you leave for your appointment, Pour one (1) measuring tablespoon of Fleets Phospho-soda in to 8 ounces of Gatorade and drink, Repeat in 10 minutes, repeat again in 10 minutes.
5. The Hospital will not allow us to perform the procedure if you do not have someone to drive you. You need to arrange for transportation to and from the hospital, A CAB DRIVER IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. After your procedure, do not plan any social activities or to return to work that day.
6. You can take any heart or blood pressure medication the morning of your procedure with a small drink of water (NOT A FULL GLASS).

Do not take your diabetic medication the morning of the procedure.

Insulin patients take only half your dose.

• NO aspirin (Advil, Aleve, Motrin) for five days prior to procedure. (Tylenol is acceptable)
• NO Coumadin for five days prior to procedure.
• NO herbal medication for 1 week prior to procedure.

Examples Of Clear Liquids

• Apple Juice
• 7-UP
• Gatorade
• Water
• Cranberry Juice
• Sprite
• Broth
• Tea
• White Grape Juice
• Ginger Ale
• Light Jello (no red)