Colonoscopy is a procedure that examines the lining of the colon (large bowel) for abnormalities. It involves inserting a flexible tube into the anus and advancing it slowly into the rectum and colon.

The colon must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and complete. Before the procedure, a Rutgers Health Gastroenterology physician will provide detailed instructions and dietary restrictions to follow, as well as a necessary cleansing routine. Preparation consists of drinking a lot of clear liquids, taking laxatives, or having enemas in the days leading to the colonoscopy. It is important to follow prep instructions carefully: incorrect preparation may prevent accurate results, and the colonoscopy may be subject to cancellation or repeating.

Rutgers Health Gastroenterology physicians are on the faculty of Rutgers New Jersey Medical School or Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, part of Rutgers University – one of the top research institutions in America. Our doctors are involved in research and in teaching about all aspects of gastroenterology and colonoscopy. Each brings life-changing knowledge from the classroom to the exam room.

How Is the Examination Performed?

Colonoscopy is usually well tolerated and rarely causes significant pain. The procedure usually takes between 15 minutes and one hour. Feelings of pressure, bloating, or cramping are common, and your doctor will provide medication to help you relax and better tolerate discomfort. Patients need to lie on their side or back while a colonoscope moves slowly through the large intestine. As the colonoscope is slowly withdrawn, the lining is carefully examined. In some cases, passage of the colonoscope through the colon to the junction with the small intestine cannot be achieved. If that occurs, the physician will decide if this limited examination is sufficient or if a repeat examination or different test is necessary.

Complications after colonoscopy are uncommon, but it is important to recognize early signs. Contact the physician who performed the colonoscopy if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Black stools
• Excessive rectal bleeding
• Fever and chills
• Severe abdominal pain

Proper Post-Exam Arrangements

The effects of medication used during a colonoscopy may include feeling drowsy and forgetful. Patients cannot drive on the day of the exam. Please make prior arrangements for transportation with a responsible adult who can pick you up from the recovery area and accompany you home. An escort must come to the department to take a patient home, even if the patient is traveling by taxicab, car service, or public transportation. Please note that procedures are subject to cancellation without prior arrangements for escorts home.

If you or a loved one needs a colonoscopy, please contact Rutgers Health Gastroenterology today for an appointment.