A colonoscopy involves an internal screening of your digestive tract. Dr. Stephen Buto is a skilled gastroenterologist in Honolulu, HI. Read on to learn more about this procedure.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a thin tube with a tiny camera attached to the end of it, called an endoscope, is inserted into the rectum. The endoscope allows your physician to examine what's going on internally in your colon.
Is It Painful?
A colonoscopy is not painful at all. At most, you may experience a small amount of discomfort, usually described as "a sense of pressure" during this procedure.
Why Would I Need a Colonoscopy?
The main reason to get a colonoscopy is for cancer screening. It is recommended as part of routine screenings every 5 years or so beginning at the age of 45. The frequency of the recommendation of this test may increase or decrease depending on the results of the test. Several subsequent negative tests will result in a need for decreased frequency of this procedure.
A colonoscopy can also be a therapeutic measure, not just preventive or diagnostic. This procedure is sometimes used to remove suspicious-looking tissue. During a colonoscopy, your doctor can remove polyps and other blockages, inject medication, and put stents in place.
Reasons to have a colonoscopy for diagnostic purposes in Honolulu, HI are:
- Age 45 or over
- Rectal bleeding
- Changes in bowel habits or appearance of stool
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Chronic abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
How Do I Prepare for This Procedure?
An empty stomach and intestines are preferred. In the case of colonoscopy, you will be required to abstain from solids for the day before the procedure and asked to only consume light-colored liquids such as lemon or lime Gatorade, jello, apple juice, and water. You also may be asked to take a laxative the day or night before your procedure.
What Does the Procedure Consist Of?
You may be given a mild sedative before the procedure so that you are barely aware in real time of what is happening, and won't remember much of anything afterwards. A mild anaesthetic will also be administered. This procedure is quite short, around 15 minutes, and performed on an outpatient basis. You will go home the same day and there is no need to spend a night in the hospital. However, we do recommend that you have someone else drive you home since you will still be under the effects of the anesthesia for up to a day after the procedure.
Contact Us
Schedule your colonoscopy in Honolulu, HI with Dr. Buto. You can reach our office by calling (808) 524-7676.