Colonoscopy in Denver, CO
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Find a ProviderWhat Is A Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure where a flexible tube, known as a scope, is inserted into the rectum and guided through the entire colon (large intestine). This scope has a light and camera, allowing the doctor to inspect the colon's lining. This examination can help diagnose gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, bleeding, abdominal pain, or abnormal x-ray results. It can also screen for colon cancer and polyps in asymptomatic patients, typically starting at age 45 or earlier based on medical history.
Colonoscopies are a crucial colorectal prevention strategy. At Denver Digestive Health Specialists, our board-certified gastroenterologists routinely perform colon cancer screenings using a variety of methods, but the colonoscopy still stands out as the most effective. To learn more, contact our gastroenterology practice in Denver, CO.
Why Do You Recommend Regular Colonoscopies?
The colonoscopy is one of the best tools we have when it comes to preventing colon cancer. They are highly recommended for individuals over 45 or those at higher risk. Regular colonoscopies can also provide a number of benefits for your GI and overall health, including:
- Early detection of colon and rectal cancer
- Identification and removal of abnormal growths
- Diagnosis of conditions like diverticulosis, IBD, and other issues
- Serving as the most effective screening method for colon and rectal cancer
- Potentially life-saving outcomes
Advancements in technology have made colonoscopies quicker, more comfortable, and more accurate.
What Should I Expect During My Colonoscopy?
Before your exam, you will receive instructions for bowel preparation, which typically involves a clear liquid diet the day before the procedure and laxatives to clean out the colon. It is crucial to follow these instructions closely. You will also get specific guidelines regarding your medications, especially if you are on blood thinners or have diabetes. Generally, you should not consume anything by mouth after midnight except for medications.
On the day of the exam, you should plan to arrive at the endoscopy center 1 – 1.5 hours early so you have time to complete paperwork and prepare. You will change into a medical gown, and an intravenous (IV) catheter will be placed in your arm for sedation. Your vital signs will be monitored throughout the procedure.
In the exam room, you will lie on your left side as IV sedation is administered. The doctor will perform a rectal exam before gently inserting the colonoscope into the rectum, advancing it through the colon to where it meets the small bowel. A small amount of air is introduced through the scope to enhance visibility. Any remaining fluid in the colon can be washed and suctioned out.
During the procedure, your provider may perform a biopsy, remove any identifiable polyps, and take steps to control any bleeding. The exam usually takes 15 – 30 minutes.
How Long Will It Take to Receive My Colonoscopy Results?
After the procedure, you will be monitored in the recovery room as the sedation wears off, which usually takes 45 – 60 minutes. You will not be able to drive for the rest of the day, so arrange for a ride home. Avoid working, signing important documents, or engaging in strenuous activities for the rest of the day. Most patients can eat and drink normally after discharge, with specific instructions provided on a case-by-case basis.
Your doctor or nurse will discuss the findings with you, but you may not remember due to the sedation. We recommend bringing someone who can also hear the results. You will receive a typed report and biopsy results within a week.
Are There Alternatives to A Colonoscopy?
There are several other approaches to colon cancer screening, but your available options will depend on why you need the test in the first place. While a colonoscopy is the best method for evaluating and treating colon abnormalities, other diagnostic options include barium enemas and virtual CT scans. Note that these are purely diagnostic tests — treatment for any abnormalities found will still require a colonoscopy or surgery.
Does A Colonoscopy Come with Any Risks?
Colonoscopy is generally very safe, with complications occurring in less than 1% of patients. Most complications are not life-threatening but may require hospitalization or surgery. Before the exam, the nursing staff will review a consent form with you, and any questions or concerns can be discussed with your physician.
Potential medication reactions include allergic responses, breathing difficulties, heart and blood pressure effects, and vein irritation at the IV site. Bleeding can occur with biopsies and polyp removal. Significant bleeding may require a blood transfusion or hospital stay, but this is rare. Bleeding can occur during the exam or up to two weeks afterward if a polyp is removed.
Perforation or puncture of the colon is another rare complication that may require surgery and hospitalization. It can be detected during the exam or later. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever after the procedure.
Like any test, a colonoscopy is not perfect. There is a small risk that abnormalities, including polyps and cancers, can be missed. Follow up with your provider at Denver Digestive Health Specialists as instructed and report any new or persistent symptoms.
Colonoscopy FAQs
By what age is it time to get a colonoscopy?
We suggest people who are at regular risk of developing colon cancer start scheduling their colon cancer exam when they turn 45 years of age. In the event your chances of colon cancer are more than average or you are presenting worrisome indications of colon cancer, GI specialist might recommend getting a colonoscopy prior to 45.
How often is it suggested you schedule a colonoscopy?
GI doctors suggest getting colonoscopy screenings every ten years for individuals who have ordinary risk, who are in favorable health, and when they have colonoscopy test results that reveal no concerns. After your colon cancer screening, your gastroenterologist will let you know how many years apart you will want to request colonoscopy exams from here on out.
Will my colonoscopy be an uncomfortable process?
Sedation will be administered before your colon cancer screening to help you remain comfortable during the procedure. Based on the sedation, most people will be very relaxed and tired, and many individuals sustain virtually no memory of their procedure. Feel free to discuss with your GI specialist about what you can anticipate at your consultation visit.
What’s the average recovery period for a colonoscopy exam?
Most of the time, patients need around 24 hours to recover after a colonoscopy, and a number of individuals are able to start their normal activities the subsequent day. If colorectal polyps are found and removed, recovery may last longer. It is not uncommon to experience a bit of gastrointestinal irritation following your colonoscopy exam, such as cramping and/or bloating. Our Denver Digestive Health Specialists providers will provide further details on what you can expect as you recover.
Schedule Your Colonoscopy with Denver Digestive Health Specialists
A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon cancer screenings. Unlike other methods, it allows for both examination of the entire colon and removal of polyps in one procedure. Other screening methods do not offer polyp removal, requiring a colonoscopy if any polyps are found. Schedule your colonoscopy at Denver Digestive Health Specialists today. Regular colonoscopies could save your life. For more information on getting a colonoscopy, contact our location in Denver, CO.
Reviews
Simply the BEST! We’re “growing old together” as he promised when he diagnosed my UC years ago. Exceptional medical care with a very personal touch. I received a thank you note from the Rose Surgical Center after my recent colonoscopy signed by all 8 staff members involved in the procedure! Dr. Siegel’s expert care has been key to maintaining my active lifestyle for 20 years.
A great team and an outstanding performance from Rose Surgical Center. Kudos to Dr.Fishman on my colonoscopy procedure. A big thank you to you all.
Dr. Miller provided valuable information and insights about my upcoming colonoscopy. It had been 5 years since our last interaction and - after reviewing my history - I felt like we connected in a very healthy doctor/patient rapport.
Everything about the process was very friendly and professional from checking in, preparing for the procedure; to the actual colonoscopy. I felt I was in good hands from beginning to end. Thanks to Dr. Fishman and the whole staff.
Uneventful, like a colonoscopy should be. Friendly staff and doctors that took excellent care of me
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