Colonoscopy

A Colonoscopy is an invasive test used to examine the large intestine and the rectum for conditions, such as polyps, inflammation, bleeding, etc. This test uses a flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope, which is gently inserted through the rectum and advanced through the intestine to provide real-time visual images of the bowel lining. This procedure is performed under anesthesia and requires a specific preparation a day before the procedure. The procedure takes 15-20 minutes. Colonoscopy is commonly recommended for evaluating symptoms such as blood in the stool, weight loss, chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, and abdominal pain. This test is also widely used as a screening tool for colorectal cancer. Since the test examines the entire colon, bowel preparation is more extensive than for limited lower-colon exams.