What To Expect From A Chicago Colonoscopy

A Chicago colonoscopy is the internal exam of your colon and rectum by a long, flexible tube that is about a half inch in diameter and has a camera attached to it, which is called a colonoscope. This is done in order to evaluate the colon or screen for cancer. It can also be used to find ulcers, inflamed tissue and abnormal growth in your colon.

In order for a Chicago colonoscopy to work you must have a clean bowel with no feces in it. This is why it is important to follow instructions to prepare your bowel for a Chicago colonoscopy. Otherwise your Chicago colonoscopy may not be successful and thus you may need to have it done again.

Prior to the Chicago colonoscopy you will be given some pain reliever and sedation. This will make you comfortable and relaxed. You will then lie on your side with your knees drawn up to your chest. The well-lubricated colonoscope will be placed in your anus and guided through your rectum into your colon. Small amounts of air will then be pumped in there to expand your colon so that its walls can be clearly seen. If there are any polyps they will be removed and sent to a lab to see if they are cancerous. Most of the time they are benign but since they can indicate the beginning stages of cancer, they need to be tested. Biopsies of abnormal tissue can also be taken. Diathermy, which involves the use of an electrical probe, can stop any bleeding if it should occur during the biopsy.

While a Chicago colonoscopy will only last about 30 to 60 minutes, you will need to stay an hour or 2 afterwards for the sedative to wear off. Cramping, bloating and flatulence are common after a Chicago colonoscopy. However, if you have a fever, severe abdominal pain or blood in your stools you should contact your doctor immediately because while these side effects are rare they can be serious.