Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty dealing with disorders of the digestive system. Patients see a gastroenterologist for a variety of concerns including but not limited to:

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Structural disorders of the bowel
Diverticular disease
Colon polyps and cancer
Colitis including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease
Diseases of the liver and pancreas

For information about preparing for a GI procedure, click on the links below (please be sure to verify with your doctor’s office the preparation that is appropriate for your particular procedure):

What is a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy enables your doctor to examine the lining of your colon (large intestine) for abnormalities such as swollen tissue, ulcers, polyps and cancer.

What Preparation is Required?

Your doctor will provide dietary restrictions and details about the bowel cleansing routine to use the day before the procedure. In general, the preparation consists of either consuming a large volume of a special cleansing solution or clear liquids and special oral laxatives. The colon must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and complete, so be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

What Happens During the Colonoscopy?

You will lie on your side or back while your doctor slowly advances a colonoscope through your large intestine to examine the lining. Your doctor will examine the lining again as he or she slowly withdraws the colonoscope. The procedure itself usually takes 15 to 60 minutes, although you should plan on two to three hours for waiting, preparation and recovery.

After the Colonoscopy

Your physician will share the results of the examination with you after the procedure is completed and you are awake. If a biopsy was performed, you may have to wait for those results.

If you received sedatives during the procedure, someone will need to drive you home and stay with you. While you may feel fine after the procedure, your reflexes and judgment can be impaired for the rest of the day.

You should be able to eat after the procedure, but your doctor may restrict your diet and activities based on findings of the procedure.

Complications

A colonoscopy is generally safe when performed by trained physicians. However, every procedure involves some risk and your physician will discuss those risks with you prior to your colonoscopy.

Dr. Dodman's Prep Instructions