Colonoscopy in Denver, CO
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Find a ProviderWhat is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an endoscopic exam where a long, slender, pliable tube or “scope” is positioned into the rectum and advanced through the length of the colon (large intestine). The pipe has a light and a camera on the end of it, which enables the physician to investigate the lining of the colon. A colonoscopy could be done to determine the reason for gastrointestinal symptoms, such as loose stool, bowl in the stool, gut pain, or strange x-ray findings.
A colonoscopy might also be conducted on an asymptomatic patient at age 45 or younger contingent on the patient’s history, to screen for colon and rectal cancer and growths. As leading specialists in intestinal wellbeing, the board-certified GI specialists at Denver Digestive Health Specialists commonly do colonoscopy tests. Please talk to us the learn more about colonoscopies in Denver, CO.
What should I expect during a colonoscopy?
You will get instructions from your specialist at Denver Digestive Health Specialists in relation to the vital bowel preparation for your procedure. The majority of people consume only clear liquids the whole day before the exam. There are various different choices for laxatives to totally clear out the colon. It is extremely vital to obey the directions given to you by your specialist. There could also be further directions concerning your medications. In the majority of situations, your medications will be maintained as routine. However, in specific instances, specifically in patients on blood thinners (i.e., warfarin, Plavix®, Coumadin®, aspirin, anti-inflammatories) and in diabetics, special directions could be specified. Clients will be instructed not to consume anything following midnight except for prescriptions.
You might be instructed to appear at the endoscopy office 1 – 1.5 hours prior to your procedure. This is to allow time to fill out documentation and prepare for the exam. You will be instructed to change into a hospital robe. An intravenous (IV) catheter will be inserted into your vein so that sedation can be administered. You will be hooked up to machines that will allow the specialist and nurses to check your heart rate, arterial pressure, electrocardiogram, breathing, and oxygen level throughout and following the colonoscopy.
When you reach the colonoscopy private space, you will be asked to position yourself on your left side on the gurney. The IV drugs will be administered. Small amounts are given to help ensure your protection and deliver solely the amount you must have individually. Once a sufficient amount of calm is accomplished, the provider will carry out a rectal examination. The colonoscope will then be softly introduced through the anus. The scope will be cautiously moved throughout the colon to where the small intestine and colon come together. A slight measure of air is pumped through the scope and inside the colon to allow the specialist to view the lining of the colon. Any fluid remaining in the colon after the preparation can be washed and suctioned out through the scope.
Based on the findings of the test, various things may be accomplished at the time of the procedure, including biopsies, the elimination of growths, and the repression of bleeding. At the conclusion of the test, as much of the air and leftover liquid as viable is absorbed out of the colon with the scope. Based on the findings, the test takes approximately 15 – 30 minutes.
After the colonoscopy is finished, you will be escorted to the aftercare room to be supervised while the IV drug starts to dissipate. The measure of medication applied throughout the test and your particular response to the sedation will establish how rapidly you will awaken, though the majority of patients are conscious enough for dismissal within 45 – 60 minutes.
You will not be permitted to operate a vehicle for the remainder of the afternoon following your colonoscopy with our Denver, CO staff. as a result, you will be required to obtain a ride home. You will also be ordered not to work, sign important documents, or undergo strenuous activities for the rest of the day. Most people are able to eat and drink as normal following their dismissal from the endoscopy office; although, personalized directions about exercise, eating, and prescriptions will be given before discharge.
What benefits can I expect from a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is the most effective protection against developing colon cancer, so it is particularly important that you schedule your colon cancer screenings as advised by your GI doctor. Preventive colonoscopies provide many advantages for your GI and overall health. Some of the benefits of a colonoscopy include the following:
- Provides the prevailing screening option for colorectal cancer
- Identifies diverticulosis, IBD, and additional GI issues
- Can be a life-saving exam
- Uncovers and removes suspicious growths
- Discovers early indications of colorectal cancer
Thanks to advancing technology, colonoscopy exams are executed faster, in greater comfort, and with more precision than ever before.
When will I get my results?
After the exam, the specialist and/or nurse will go over the conclusions of the procedure with you. Many patients will not recall what they are told after the exam because of the effects of the medication. It is advised, if possible, to bring a friend or family member with you to whom the outcome can also be discussed. You may also return home with a written report. You could be notified of any biopsy conclusions, typically within seven days.
What are the alternatives to a colonoscopy?
To a degree, alternatives to the exam will depend on the grounds for necessitating the colonoscopy in the first place. In many cases, a colonoscopy is the leading means to measure and address irregularities in the colon. However, there are various x-rays that can evaluate the colon, like a barium enema or virtual CT scan. These are, however, only diagnostic tests. Handling irregularities will require a colonoscopy or a surgical process.
What are the risks of a colonoscopy?
Usually, a colonoscopy is an extremely safe procedure. In general, complexities happen in fewer than 1% of clients. Many difficulties are not too serious. Although, if a complication occurs, it could need hospitalization and surgery. Before the exam, a consent form will be checked with the patient by the nursing staff. If any issues or concerns appear, these can be reviewed with your provider prior to commencing the procedure.
Prescription reactions associated with sedation can happen. These can include, but are not confined to, allergic responses, trouble breathing, impacts on the heart and blood pressure, and discomfort of the vein utilized to give the IV drug.
Bleeding can arise with biopsies and the removal of tumors. Once more, considerable bleeding, which may necessitate a blood donation or hospitalization, is usually rare. Although, bleeding can occur during the procedure or up to two weeks following the test if a polyp is extracted.
Perforation or puncture of the colon can occur. This might be discovered during the procedure, or it could not be obvious before later in the afternoon. In most circumstances, a penetration will need surgery and hospitalization. This is an unusual complication, even when tumors are withdrawn.
It is exceedingly vital that you talk to your provider’s office immediately if symptoms emerge following the procedure, like worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever.
Just as with most other procedures, a colonoscopy is not foolproof. There is a minuscule, acknowledged danger that deformities, like growths and cancers, can be undiagnosed during the exam. It is important to continue to follow up with your specialist at Denver Digestive Health Specialists as instructed and inform them of any recent or lasting 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.
The gold standard for colorectal cancer screening
A colonoscopy is thought of as the “gold standard” of all screening methods for colon cancer. Unlike other screening systems, a colonoscopy provides for the examination of the entire colon. Plus, providing the most comprehensive screening, it also permits the detection of tumors and their removal during one procedure. For some other screening systems, the capacity to withdraw growths is not accessible, and if the exam returns positive for growths, you will likely need a colonoscopy. You can make an appointment for a colonoscopy in Denver, CO by contacting our team. A standard colonoscopy just might save your life. If you would like more information about how to obtain a colonoscopy, contact Denver Digestive Health Specialists today.
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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