Colonoscopy in New Orleans, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure in which a long, thin, flexible tube, or "scope," is inserted into the rectum and advanced through the entire colon (large intestine). The scope is equipped with a light and camera, allowing the physician to examine the colon's lining. This procedure is often performed to diagnose the cause of gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, bleeding, abdominal pain, or abnormal x-ray results.
A colonoscopy can also be performed on asymptomatic patients starting at age 45, or earlier depending on the patient’s history, to screen for colon cancer and polyps. It remains the only colorectal prevention strategy available. As leading specialists in digestive health, the board-certified gastroenterologists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA, routinely perform colonoscopy exams. Please contact a location near you to learn more.
What are the benefits of a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy exams are the most reliable defense against colon cancer, making it crucial for individuals over 45 or those at higher risk to undergo these screenings as recommended by their physician. Regular colonoscopy screenings offer numerous benefits for both gastrointestinal and overall health. Some advantages of colonoscopy exams include:
- Detecting initial signs of colon and rectal cancer
- Identifying and removing abnormal growths
- Diagnosing conditions such as diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and other gastrointestinal issues
- Serving as the most effective screening option for colon and/or rectal cancer
- Potentially saving lives through early detection and treatment
Thanks to advancements in technology, colorectal cancer screenings are now performed more quickly, comfortably, and accurately than ever before.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
You will receive specific instructions from your doctor at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to prepare for your exam. Most patients will need to follow a clear liquid diet the day before the procedure. There are several laxative options available to thoroughly cleanse the colon. It is crucial to adhere to the instructions provided by your doctor. Additionally, you will receive guidance regarding your medications. Generally, you can continue taking your medications as usual, but special instructions will be given for patients on blood thinners (such as Coumadin, warfarin, Plavix, aspirin, and anti-inflammatories) and for diabetics. You will be instructed not to consume anything after midnight except for necessary medications.
On the day of your exam, you should arrive at the endoscopy center 1 – 1.5 hours before your scheduled time. This allows for completing paperwork and preparing for the procedure. You will change into a medical gown, and an intravenous (IV) catheter will be placed in your arm for sedation. Monitoring equipment will track your heart rate, blood pressure, pulse, electrocardiogram, breathing, and oxygen levels during and after the exam.
In the exam room, you will lie on your left side on the stretcher. The IV sedation will be administered in small, safe amounts tailored to your needs. Once adequately sedated, the physician will perform a rectal exam followed by the gentle insertion of the colonoscope into the rectum. The scope will be carefully advanced through the colon to the junction with the small intestine. Air will be introduced through the scope to expand the colon for better visibility. Any residual fluid in the colon can be washed out and suctioned through the scope.
During the procedure, the doctor may perform biopsies, remove polyps, and control any bleeding. After completing the exam, as much air and remaining fluid as possible will be suctioned from the colon. The entire procedure typically lasts between 15 – 30 minutes, depending on the findings.
When will I get my results?
After the exam, you will be taken to the recovery room where you will be monitored as the sedation wears off. The amount of sedation used and your individual response to the medication will determine how quickly you regain alertness, though most patients are ready for discharge within 45 – 60 minutes.
You will not be allowed to drive for the rest of the day, so you must arrange for someone to take you home. Additionally, you will be instructed not to work, sign important documents, or engage in strenuous activities for the remainder of the day. Most patients can eat and drink normally after being discharged from the Endoscopy unit, but specific instructions regarding activity, diet, and medications will be provided before you leave.
After the exam, the doctor or nurse will discuss the findings with you. Because sedation can affect memory, it is advisable to bring someone with you who can also hear the results. You will receive a typed report to take home. Biopsy results, if applicable, are typically available within one week.
Are there alternatives to a colonoscopy?
The alternatives to a colonoscopy largely depend on the reason for the procedure. In most cases, a colonoscopy is the best method to evaluate and treat abnormalities in the colon and is the only preventive method for colorectal cancer. Other diagnostic options include barium enemas and virtual CT scans, which can assess the colon but do not allow for treatment. If these diagnostic exams reveal abnormalities, a colonoscopy or surgery will still be necessary for treatment.
Are there any risks with a colonoscopy?
In general, a colonoscopy is a very safe procedure with complications occurring in less than 1% of patients, most of which are not life-threatening. However, if a complication does arise, it may require hospitalization and surgery. Before the exam, the nursing staff will review a consent form with you, and any questions or concerns can be discussed with your physician.
Reactions to the sedation medication can occur, including allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, effects on the heart and blood pressure, and irritation at the vein where the medication is administered.
Bleeding may occur from biopsies or the removal of polyps, but significant bleeding requiring a blood transfusion or hospitalization is rare. However, bleeding can happen during the exam or up to two weeks afterwards if a polyp is removed.
Perforation or puncture of the colon is another potential complication. This may be recognized during the exam or later in the day. Most cases of perforation will require surgical intervention and hospitalization, although this is uncommon, even when polyps are removed.
It's crucial to contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms like worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever after the procedure.
As with any test, a colonoscopy is not perfect. There is a small, accepted risk that abnormalities, including polyps and cancers, might be missed. It is important to maintain regular follow-ups with your doctor at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates and to report any new or ongoing symptoms.
Colonoscopy FAQs
At what age should you have a colonoscopy?
Individuals at average risk for colon cancer should start having colonoscopies at age 45. If your odds of developing colon cancer are higher, or you have signs or symptoms of the disease, your GI doctor might suggest scheduling a colonoscopy at an earlier age.
How often should you have a colonoscopy?
Doctors recommend getting colonoscopies every ten years for those at average risk, who are in good health, and have colonoscopy test results within normal limits. Following your exam, your gastroenterologist will discuss how often you should undergo colonoscopy screenings moving forward.
Is a colonoscopy an uncomfortable process?
Sedation will be provided ahead of your colon exam to help ensure your comfort and relaxation during the screening. Depending on the type of sedation, patients may feel very relaxed and sleepy, and many experience no recollection of their procedure. Feel free to speak with your GI specialist about what to expect during your consultation.
What is recovery process for a colonoscopy?
On average, it takes about a full day to recuperate following a colonoscopy, and many people feel well enough to maintain their daily routine the subsequent day. When colon polyps are removed, recovery will likely take longer. It is common to experience abdominal discomfort, such as cramping and/or bloating, following a colonoscopy exam. The Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates team will provide more information on what to expect while you recover.
The gold standard for colorectal cancer screening
A colonoscopy is considered the "gold standard" of all screening methods. Unlike many other screening methods, a colonoscopy is a preventive strategy that allows for the examination of the entire colon and the removal of polyps in one procedure. For other screening methods, the ability to remove polyps is not available, and if the test returns positive for polyps, you will likely need a colonoscopy. You can schedule a colonoscopy at your local Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. A regular colonoscopy just might save your life. If you would like to know more about how to get a colonoscopy, contact one of our New Orleans, LA locations today.
Reviews
Dr Awtrey was awesome! He was kind, friendly, personable yet professional. He made you feel at ease before and after the procedure. He explained what was involved and the results of my colonoscopy. I feel so comfortable with Dr. Awtrey that I would consider more frequent procedures BUT yuck, the prep is unpleasant!
It was a colonoscopy. How pleasant could that actually be? HAHA However, All the medical staff was very good, professional, and pleasant. My nurse was Stephanie and she was fantastic.She was fun to work with and kept me at ease. I am supposed to come back in a year and I will request her. Dr Carriere was wonderful, so was the nurse anesthetist No complaints AT ALL.
Scheduled visit to pickup prep kit for upcoming colonoscopy resulted in successful acquisition of 24 magic pills that ought to do the clean out trick at the appointed time.
The entire process of having a colonoscopy procedure was done with professionalism by the entire staff. I felt like I was in good hands.
Great experience! My colonoscopy started with the prep the day before. Definitely recommend the Sutab tablets vs drinks the liquid prep. Arrived at 11:30 am for my procedure. The staff and nurses were very courteous and informative. Dr. Lilly visited with me before, during and after the colonoscopy to answer questions and give me my results. Dr. Lilly is very good with great personality! I highly recommend you get your colonoscopy at the required time!
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