Colonoscopy & Endoscopy in Port Charlotte, FL
Serving Charlotte County, Sarasota, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and surrounding areas
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a simple and easy procedure that could potentially save your life. A colonoscopy is used to look through the large intestine and rectum for polyps or other signs of cancer. A colonoscopy can help your doctor detect signs of cancer at an early stage, making it easier to treat and remove.
Why a Colonoscopy Procedure Is Important
Colon cancer remains the third leading cause of cancer death in America. Colonoscopy is the most sensitive and effective screening methods for colon cancer. All colonoscopies are done under “twilight” anesthesia or conscious sedation. All polyps will be removed during the colonoscopy. Biopsy will be taken if necessary. Internal hemorrhoids can be banded at the same time as well.
Recommendations: All patients should have their first colonoscopy at age 45. Screening colonoscopy should be repeated every 10 years after normal colonoscopy. Repeat screening colonoscopy in 5 years if family history of colon cancer or history of polyps on last colonoscopy. Unexplained blood in stool or black/tarry stools Unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or abdominal pain.
Reasons To Have a Colonoscopy
In addition to routine colonoscopies, there are other reasons why your doctor might recommend a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy might be indicated if you are experiencing:
- Bleeding in your rectum
- Blood in your stool
- Chronic diarrhea
- Chronic constipation
- Frequent abdominal pain
Preparing for Your Colonoscopy
You will be placed on a liquid diet before your colonoscopy. You will also take prepared laxatives to clean out your colon before the procedure.
What To Expect During Your Colonoscopy
You will be sedated during your colonoscopy procedure, so it’s necessary to bring someone with you who can drive you home after your procedure. During your procedure, a thin, flexible tube will be inserted into your rectum and guided up into your colon. The tube has a camera attached to one end which allows your doctor to view your colon.
If your doctor finds any abnormal tissue or polyps, they can be removed and sent off for a biopsy if necessary. The biopsy can indicate if the tissue is benign or cancerous.
The colonoscopy procedure takes about 45 minutes, but you should plan on spending 2 to 3 hours in recovery due to sedation.
Endoscopy
A scope can also be used to look inside your throat, esophagus, stomach, and intestine. We use this tool to evaluate heart burn, swallowing problems, gastrointestinal bleeding, malabsorption problems, or unexplained abdominal pain or weight loss. Performed under “twilight” anesthesia like a colonoscopy.