As we discussed in last week’s article, colorectal cancer rates have been increasing in individuals younger than 50 years old since the 1990s. If you’re considered high risk for colorectal cancer or are 45 years or older, your doctor has probably recommended you get screened. Screening is the best method for finding precancerous polyps (growths in the lining of the colon) and for early detection of colorectal cancer.
Since colonoscopies are generally considered the gold standard for screening and detection, you may be wondering, “Who performs a colonoscopy?” Read on to learn the answer to your question and more details about the colonoscopy procedure and preparation.
Key Takeaways
- Gastroenterologists perform colonoscopies and specialize in the digestive system.
- During a colonoscopy, a colonoscope is used to view the inner lining of your colon.
- Colonoscopy preparation includes adjusting your diet to ensure your colon is empty on the day of the procedure.
Who Performs a Colonoscopy?
If it’s time for you to receive your first colon cancer screening, you may be wondering, “Who performs a colonoscopy?” Unless you’ve had gastrointestinal issues in the past, this likely isn’t something you’ve given much thought to. But the fact of the matter is, as you get older, you’ll most likely come into contact with more doctors who specialize in different fields of medicine, like gastroenterologists. Which brings us to the answer to our question, “Who performs a colonoscopy?”
A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in the human digestive system. This includes organs such as your stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, liver, small and large intestine, rectum, and anus. Performing colonoscopies is one of the ways a gastroenterologist screens their patients for cancer and other digestive problems.
However, gastroenterologists aren’t the only doctors who perform this procedure. It can also be performed by an endoscopist, a person trained to operate an endoscope, or a colorectal surgeon, a doctor specializing in gastrointestinal disease.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy allows your gastroenterologist to see any growths, tears, and other issues that could be affecting your colon, making it one of the best ways to diagnose colorectal cancer.
By using a colonoscope, a lighted camera attached to a catheter, inserted into the anus, your gastroenterologist is able to view video footage of the inner lining of your colon to look for any abnormalities.
The colonoscope blows carbon dioxide to inflate the colon and helps your doctor get a better view. The colonoscope goes to the end of the large intestine, with your doctor examining the lining all along the way and then examining it again as the colonoscope is removed. If your gastroenterologist sees any polyps, which is not uncommon, they can remove them during the colonoscopy.
How Do You Prepare for a Colonoscopy?
Once your doctor has scheduled your colonoscopy, they’ll also give you instructions on how to adjust your diet the week leading up to your procedure. This usually includes a low-fiber diet a few days before and then a clear liquid diet the day before your appointment. This means no solid foods the day before the procedure.
The evening before your colonoscopy, you’ll take a laxative to help remove any remaining stool from your large intestine. This is to ensure that your colon is as free and clear as possible to give your doctor the best view of it. Failure to follow your doctor’s instructions may result in having to reschedule your colonoscopy and redo the prior week’s preparation.
What Can You Expect During and After the Procedure?
Since a colonoscopy requires general anesthesia or a mild sedative, you’ll need to bring someone who can drive you back home on the day of your appointment. It generally takes about a day for anesthesia to wear off. You can speak with your doctor about the best sedation option for you.
With sedation, you shouldn’t feel any pain, even if your surgeon has to biopsy or remove polyps, but you may be aware of mild discomfort or gas pain as the colonoscope inflates your colon with carbon dioxide.
The whole experience usually takes around two hours, with the second hour used for recovery and waking up from the anesthesia.
When to See an RMC Gastroenterologist
The idea of getting a colonoscopy is enough to make one feel more than uncomfortable. However, our expert team of gastroenterologists here at RMC are fully equipped to handle your procedure with care, compassion, and comfort. If your doctor has recommended you receive a colonoscopy to screen for colorectal cancer or another reason, ask them about a referral to RMC’s Digestive Care Services. Our gastroenterology physicians are ready to deliver the expertise and care you require.