This post was written by Dr. Binoy Ouseph, Gastroenterology, Parkview Health.
A colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools we have for preventing colorectal cancer and identifying causes of symptoms such as bleeding, anemia or changes in bowel habits. By the time you arrive for your procedure, the hardest part — the bowel prep — is already behind you. Now the focus shifts to ensuring a safe, comfortable and smooth experience.
Arriving at the Endoscopy Center
Patients are typically asked to arrive about one hour before their scheduled procedure time. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the registration desk, where staff will confirm your demographic and insurance information. You will then be escorted to the pre-procedure area, usually with a family member or support person who will drive you home afterward.
In the pre-procedure area, a registered nurse will review your medical history, medications, allergies and prior anesthesia experiences. Vital signs — including blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen level — are checked. An intravenous (IV) line is placed to allow medications and fluids to be given safely.
The anesthesia provider will meet with you to review your history and explain sedation. Most colonoscopies today are performed using propofol, which allows for a deep, comfortable sleep. The gastroenterologist will also meet with you to review the reason for your procedure, perform a brief focused exam, answer questions and obtain informed consent.
What happens during the procedure
In the procedure room, you will be positioned on your left side, known as the left lateral position. Monitoring equipment continuously tracks your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels throughout the exam.
Sedation is administered through the IV, and patients typically fall into a deep sleep. Once asleep, the physician begins with a brief rectal examination. A colonoscope — a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light — is gently inserted into the rectum and advanced through the colon.
To allow full visualization, carbon dioxide or air is introduced to gently expand the colon so the lining can be carefully examined. During the exam, the physician looks for polyps (precancerous growths), sources of bleeding, inflammation, ulcers or other abnormalities. If polyps are found, they can often be removed during the same procedure. If abnormal areas are seen, biopsies may be taken for further evaluation.
The procedure itself typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
Why good preparation matters
A high-quality bowel prep is essential. Patients usually know their prep is adequate when bowel movements become clear or light yellow liquid without solid material. Inadequate preparation can reduce the ability to detect polyps and may require the procedure to be repeated sooner than expected.
After the procedure
Following the colonoscopy, you are taken to the recovery area and monitored for approximately 30 minutes as sedation wears off. Mild bloating or cramping may occur due to the air used during the exam. Passing gas is normal and helps relieve discomfort.
Your physician will review initial findings with you and your family member before discharge. You will receive written instructions. If biopsies or polyps were removed, results are typically available within several days and may be communicated through MyChart or by phone.
Understanding the risks
Colonoscopy is considered a very safe procedure when performed by trained specialists. Serious complications are uncommon. The risk of perforation (a tear in the colon) is approximately 0.1% (about 1 in 1,000 procedures). The risk of significant bleeding is less than 0.3%, and slightly higher when larger polyps are removed. Temporary bloating is the most common side effect.
Why colonoscopy is important
Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening because it allows physicians not only to detect cancer but to prevent it by removing precancerous polyps. The American Cancer Society recommends screening begin at age 45 for average-risk adults.
To schedule a colonoscopy with the Parkview Colon Screening Clinic, call 260-266-9085 or schedule via MyChart.
