Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is the most common endoscopic procedure performed by gastroenterologists. The procedure involves visually inspecting the colon with a flexible videoscope. Colonoscopy is the gold-standard for colon cancer screening. Studies show that gastroenterologists are the most proficient at this procedure.

Why get a colonoscopy?

The primary reason to get a colonoscopy is to look for colorectal cancer or polyps. The American Cancer Society, the American College of Gastroenterologists, and the American Gastroenterological Association recommend routine colonoscopy for people age 50 and older who have normal risk for colorectal cancer. If the person has a higher risk for colorectal cancer, then a doctor may recommended more frequent testing.

Other reasons for a colonoscopy include:

• Anemia
• Bloody stool
• Rectal bleeding
• Unexpected weight loss
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Abdominal pain

What can a colonoscopy detect?

Colonoscopy is the only test that is both diagnostic and therapeutic for the entire colon. Therapeutic techniques include biopsies, polyp removal, and cautery of bleeding sites.

During a colonoscopy, the physician may remove growths, called polyps, for testing by a pathologist. While polyps are typically benign, most colorectal cancer begins as a polyp. Colonoscopy has been proven to significantly reduce a patient's risk of colon cancer.

Colonoscopy Frequently Asked Questions: