Colonoscopy

What is a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows the physician to examine the entire length of the large intestine. Colonoscopy can assist in identifying problems with the colon, such as early signs of cancer, inflamed tissue, ulcers, and bleeding. Colonoscopy is also used to screen for colorectal cancer*, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US and the fourth most common cancer in men and women.

An endoscope - a long, flexible, lighted tube (also called a colonoscope), is inserted through the rectum into the colon. In addition to allowing visualization of the internal colon, the colonoscope enables the physician to irrigate, suction, inject air, and access the bowel with surgical instruments. During a colonoscopy, the physician may remove tissue and/or polyps for further examination and possibly treat any problems that are discovered.

Other related procedures that may be used to assess problems of the colon include abdominal x-ray, computed tomography (CT scan) of the abdomen, abdominal ultrasound, barium enema, and sigmoidoscopy.

*Please Note: OSF Medical Group - General Surgery (Pontiac) currently performs screening colonoscopy/EGD procedures.

Preparing for Your Colonoscopy

Preparation for your colonoscopy procedure will vary depending upon which type of scoping procedure you are scheduled for.  Preparation instructions for our procedures are available for PDF download below.