Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is the most effective procedure for viewing the inside of your colon and identifying abnormal signs like polyps, inflammation, and lesions. At Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island, with offices in Wantagh and Malverne, New York, gastroenterologists Jeffrey Novak, MD, and Zachary Marwil, MD, offer colonoscopies. The majority of colonoscopies are performed at our ambulatory surgery center, The Endoscopy Center of Long Island. Call today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a thorough exam that views the inside of your large intestine (colon). The test involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope through your rectum. The colonoscope contains a camera that allows your gastroenterologist to see the entire lining of your colon.

Why might I need a colonoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist at Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island could order a colonoscopy to:

Investigate polyps

Polyps are lumps of cells that form in the lining of your colon. Most are benign (noncancerous), but they can evolve into cancer. Large polyps can also cause uncomfortable digestive problems like diarrhea and constipation.

Screen for colon cancer

If you show symptoms of colon cancer, like rectal bleeding, bloody stools, or abdominal pain, your physician could recommend a colonoscopy to investigate your symptoms.

Remove a blockage

A colonoscopy can help straighten and temporarily widen the colon. If your colon is blocked or twisted, your gastroenterologist can insert a stent along with the colonoscope to correct the problem.

Address intestinal symptoms

Your gastroenterologist can use a colonoscopy to investigate GI symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, and bloody stools.

Along with a colonoscopy, your physician might order a fecal blood occult test, stool test, and other tests to perform a comprehensive colon cancer screening.

How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?

An empty colon is essential before a colonoscopy. About three days before your appointment, your physician will instruct you to eat only low-fiber foods. You must follow a liquid-only diet the day before the procedure and take a prescription laxative.

Your gastroenterologist also recommends taking a laxative the morning of your appointment. You can’t drink any liquids for about two hours before the colonoscopy.

What happens during a colonoscopy?

The gastroenterologists at Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island administer an anesthetic and sedative before the colonoscopy so you don’t feel discomfort. Next, they insert a colonoscope through your rectum to view your entire colon. The procedure takes 30-60 minutes, depending on if abnormalities are found and removed or biopsied.

You should plan a ride home after the procedure; it takes up to one hour for the effects of the sedative to wear off.

Call Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about colonoscopies.