A colonoscopy in Henderson or Las Vegas, NV can save your life. At Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada, our team of gastroenterologists offers colonoscopies and many other services that you may need. If you have questions about a colonoscopy, you are not alone.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an exam that is done by your gastroenterologist. A flexible tube called a colonoscope with a small video camera is inserted through the rectum and the entire colon can be examined for signs of colon cancer. If the doctor finds polyps, they will be removed and sent to be biopsied.
Who Should Be Screened and When?
If you have any family history of colon cancer, that is an indicator that you need to get a colonoscopy. The American Cancer Society suggests that those 45 and older who are at average risk for colon cancer begin getting colonoscopies. This is 10 years earlier than the previous recommendation. If you have risk facts, then your gastroenterologist may recommend that you start even earlier.
After the initial test, the results will determine how often the doctor recommends you get additional colonoscopies in Las Vegas, NV. If polyps are found, you may need to be seen every 3-5 years. If nothing is found, it is usually every 10 years up to the age of 75. If you are 85 or over, they don't recommend that you have any more tests.
What Do I Need to Do to Prepare for a Colonoscopy?
The preparation for a colonoscopy requires that the bowels be empty. It is very important that this be done correctly because in order to see any abnormal growths in the colon, it must be completely empty. To be emptied, a laxative must be taken. This is usually liquid and preparation begins one or two days before the procedure. The amount of liquid you are required to drink depends on your doctor and your insurance. It is not pleasant, but it is necessary. You will be given detailed instructions to follow and you should follow them exactly.
How Long Does the Procedure Take? How Long Will It Take for Me to Recover?
The procedure itself is only 15 minutes to an hour long. Your recovery time depends on what you get for sedation. Expect to be there between 2 and 3 hours and you should have someone pick you up.
If you are in need of a colonoscopy in Henderson or Las Vegas, NV, contact Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada to make an appointment. You can reach us through the form on our website or you can call our office at (702) 483-4483.