What is Colonoscopy?
What is Endoscopy?
Colonoscopy is an examination of the large intestine and occasionally part of the small bowel using a camera on a flexible tube. The procedure provides a visual diagnosis for polyps, cancer, diverticulosis and other health concerns, and allows for the biopsy or removal of suspicious lesions.
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People 45-50 years of age or older should undergo a baseline colonoscopy to screen for polyps or colon cancer in the large intestine. Other medical conditions may also indicate the need for a colonoscopy, including abdominal pain, change in bowel habits, bleeding, anemia, chronic diarrhea or diverticular disease. Your doctor will discuss whether the procedure is right for you.
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For two days prior to your procedure, we’ll ask you to follow a low fiber or clear-liquid only diet. Foods and drinks that are okay to ingest include apple juice, bouillon, lemon-lime soda or sports drink, and water. Foods to avoid include orange juice, prune juice, milk, cola and coffee.
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You will be sedated throughout your procedure to minimize discomfort and ensure a successful procedure. The scope is a lighted, flexible tube that allows the doctor to examine the colon for polyps and other abnormalities. Biopsies may be taken for further analysis, if necessary.
The examination will take approximately 45 minutes. Suspicious lesions can be biopsied, cauterized, or removed completely. Medication may be administered during the procedure to control bleeding and speed healing.
Possible complications, though generally extremely rare, will be addressed at your first visit.
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You will be transferred to a recovery room following your procedure to allow the sedative to wear off. You may experience some discomfort for 24 hours following your procedure and you should eat lightly throughout the remainder of the day.
Since you will be sedated, you will not be able to drive after your colonoscopy. You must arrange for a responsible adult driver to accompany you to and from the endoscopy unit.
If polyps are removed, you will be instructed to avoid strenuous physical activities and any blood thinning medication (such as Aspirin, Plavix, Coumadin) for 7-10 days.
Based on the results of your initial screening, a rescreening every 5-10 years or sooner is common if medically indicated.
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Upper GI Endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that examines the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract. This minimally invasive procedure does not require an incision and offers a quick recovery time.
Endoscopy can help diagnose and treat abnormalities in the upper GI tract, including:
- Unexplained anemia
- Upper gastrointestinal bleeding
- Persistent dyspepsia (painful digestion) in patients over the age of 40
- Heartburn and chronic acid reflux
- Persistent vomiting
- Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
- Painful swallowing
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You should not eat or drink after midnight the night before your procedure. An intravenous line will be started and you will be given a mild sedative (conscious sedation).
During the procedure, you will rest on your side. A mouth-guard is placed between your teeth to prevent you from biting down on the endoscope. The endoscope is passed over the tongue and into the pharynx, then into the esophagus. The scope is gradually advanced down the esophagus and through the stomach and to the first part of the duodenum.
Once examination of the duodenum has been completed, the endoscope is withdrawn into the stomach to allow for a thorough examination. Any additional procedures, such as biopsies, are performed at this stage. Your doctor may take still photographs during the procedure to explain any findings to you.
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After your procedure, you will be moved to a recovery area until the medication has worn off. You may have a mild sore throat, as well as possible discomfort due to gas. You will be able to resume your normal diet within a few hours following your procedure.
You must arrange for a responsible adult driver to accompany you to and from the endoscopy unit.
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Dr. Codini cares for a wide range of digestive system disorders, including:
- Colon polyps and colon cancer
- Diverticular disease
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Peptic ulcer disease and gastritis
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Heartburn and swallowing
difficulties
- Constipation and diarrhea
- Celiac disease
- Hepatitis
- Other digestive conditions
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