colonoscopy near me - Health Topics
A colonoscopy (koe-lun-OS-kuh-pee) is a procedure used to examine the inside of the colon, rectum and when indicated the end of the small intestine. It can investigate symptoms such as bleeding from the anus, changes in bowel movements or belly pain. It can help detect conditions that affect the colon, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and diverticular disease.
Understanding the Context
Colonoscopy quality is carefully monitored to ensure every exam meets professional standards. Healthcare institutions track measures such as how often polyps are found, how long the doctor spends examining the colon, and how often the entire colon is successfully viewed. How long does colonoscopy prep take? Many people assume that colonoscopy prep begins the day before the procedure.
Image Gallery
Key Insights
But it’s important to start well in advance, reading and discussing the instructions with your healthcare professional. Colonoscopy is the most widely used and most accurate screening test for colorectal cancer in the U.S., but it is invasive and requires sedation. Less invasive, at-home test kits are available. While more convenient and affordable, these tests are less accurate than colonoscopy and still require follow-up with colonoscopy if results are positive. Colonoscopy is one option for colon cancer screening.
Related Articles You Might Like:
what does upside down pineapple mean images of fluorouracil treatment what is to low for a heart rateFinal Thoughts
Find out what to expect during this procedure to examine the inside of your colon. The follow-up colonoscopy schedule for serrated lesions is like that for adenomas. Preparing for your colonoscopy It's very important to fully clean out your colon before a colonoscopy. If stool remains in the colon and blocks the view of the colon wall, you will likely need another colonoscopy sooner than usual to make sure all polyps are found. Colonoscopy takes about 30 to 60 minutes and screening is generally repeated every 10 years if no abnormalities are found and you don't have an increased risk of colon cancer. The pros: Colonoscopy is one of the most sensitive tests currently available for colon cancer screening.
The doctor can view your entire colon and rectum. Mayo Clinic's approach Collaboration At Mayo Clinic, people who need a colonoscopy are cared for by a team of specialists who work together to tailor care to your needs. Gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons and other experts collaborate to evaluate symptoms, perform colonoscopy and ensure high-quality cancer screening and follow-up care.