Colonoscopy in Dallas, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a long, flexible tube, or "scope," is gently inserted into the rectum and navigated through the entire colon (large intestine). Equipped with a light and camera, the scope allows the doctor to inspect the colon's lining. This procedure helps diagnose gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, bleeding, abdominal pain, or abnormal x-ray findings.
In addition, colonoscopies can be performed on symptom-free patients starting at age 45 or earlier if medical history warrants it to screen for colon cancer and polyps. This remains the sole preventive measure for colorectal cancer. Digestive Health Associates of Texas's board-certified gastroenterologists, who are experts in digestive health, frequently perform colonoscopy exams. Reach out to a nearby office for more information.
What are the benefits of a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy screenings are the most reliable way to prevent colon cancer, making it essential for individuals over 45 or those at high risk to have these screenings as recommended by their doctor. Regular colonoscopy screenings can significantly benefit your gastrointestinal and overall health. Here are some key benefits of colonoscopy exams:
- Identify cases of diverticulosis, IBD, and other conditions
- Detect initial signs of colon and rectal cancer
- Serve as the most effective screening option for colon and/or rectal cancer
- Can be a life-saving exam
- Detect and remove abnormal growths
Modern technology has made colorectal cancer screenings faster, more comfortable, and more accurate than ever before.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
Your doctor at Digestive Health Associates of Texas will provide detailed instructions for bowel preparation before your colonoscopy. Most patients will need to follow a clear liquid diet the day before the procedure. Specific laxatives will be prescribed to cleanse the colon thoroughly, and it is essential to adhere to your doctor's instructions. You will also receive guidance on managing your medications. Generally, you will continue taking your medications, but special instructions will be given for patients on blood thinners (such as Coumadin, warfarin, Plavix, aspirin, and anti-inflammatories) and diabetics. Patients should avoid eating or drinking after midnight except for medications.
Arrive at the Digestive Health Associates of Texas endoscopy center 1 to 1.5 hours before your exam to allow time for paperwork and preparation. You will change into a medical gown, and an intravenous (IV) catheter will be placed in your arm to administer sedation. You will be connected to monitors that track your heart rate, blood pressure, pulse, electrocardiogram, breathing, and oxygen levels during and after the exam.
In the exam room, you will lie on your left side. IV sedation will be given in small increments to ensure your safety and achieve the appropriate level of sedation. The doctor will perform a rectal exam before gently inserting the colonoscope into the rectum. The scope will be advanced through the colon to the point where it meets the small bowel. Air will be introduced into the colon to improve visibility. Any remaining fluid can be flushed and suctioned out through the scope.
Depending on what is found during the exam, the doctor may perform biopsies, remove polyps, or control bleeding. At the end of the procedure, as much air and fluid as possible will be suctioned out of the colon through the scope. The exam typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the findings.
When can I expect my results?
After your colonoscopy, you will be taken to the recovery room to be monitored as the sedation wears off. The amount of sedation used and how your body responds will determine how quickly you wake up, but most patients are ready to leave within 45 to 60 minutes.
You will not be allowed to drive for the rest of the day, so make sure to arrange for a ride home. You will also be instructed to avoid working, signing important documents, or doing any strenuous activities for the rest of the day. Most patients can resume eating and drinking normally after discharge from the Endoscopy unit, though you will receive specific instructions about activities, diet, and medications before you leave.
After the procedure, the doctor or nurse will discuss the findings with you. Due to the effects of sedation, most patients do not remember this conversation, so it is recommended to bring someone with you to hear the results. You will also receive a written report to take home. Biopsy results, if any, will be shared with you within a week.
What are the other options for a colonoscopy?
The need for a colonoscopy largely depends on the initial reason for the exam. Typically, a colonoscopy is the most effective way to evaluate and treat colon abnormalities, and it is the only method available for preventing colorectal cancer. However, other imaging tests, like a barium enema or virtual CT scan, can also be used to examine the colon. These tests are strictly diagnostic, meaning that any detected abnormalities would still require a colonoscopy or surgery for treatment.
What are the risks of a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is generally considered very safe, with complications arising in less than 1% of cases. Most complications are minor, but some may require hospitalization and surgery. Before the procedure, the nursing staff will review a consent form with you, and you can discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.
Reactions to the sedation medication can include allergic responses, breathing difficulties, effects on the heart and blood pressure, and vein irritation where the medication is administered.
Bleeding can occur during biopsies or polyp removal. Significant bleeding that may need a blood transfusion or hospitalization is rare, although it can happen either during the procedure or up to two weeks afterward if a polyp is removed.
There is a risk of perforation or puncture of the colon. This might be noticed during the exam or later in the day and usually requires surgery and hospitalization. This is an uncommon complication, even when polyps are removed.
It is vital to contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms like worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever after the procedure.
Like any medical test, a colonoscopy is not foolproof. There is a small risk that abnormalities, including polyps and cancers, might be missed. It is essential to follow up with your doctor at Digestive Health Associates of Texas and inform them of any new or persistent symptoms.
Colonoscopy FAQs
By what age should you schedule your colonoscopy?
We recommend individuals who are at average odds of getting colon cancer begin scheduling a colon cancer screening when they turn 45 years old. If you are at greater risk of colon cancer or you are showing distressing symptoms of colon cancer, your GI doctor could advise having a colonoscopy before the standard age of 45.
After 45, when is it recommended you get colon cancer screenings?
Doctors generally suggest getting a colon cancer screening about every decade for individuals of average risk, who are of normal health, and have charts that are unconcerning. After your screening, your GI doctor will let you know when you need to have colonoscopy screenings from here on out.
Is my colonoscopy going to be an uncomfortable process?
Sedation will be provided before your colonoscopy to help ensure your comfortable while undergoing the screening. Based on the medication, a number of people experience an intensely calm state and even feel drowsy, and many patients have no recollection of the procedure. Feel free to discuss with your colonoscopy doctor about what you can anticipate when at your consultation visit.
What is the recovery period for a colonoscopy exam?
Most of the time, you can expect it to take around 24 hours to recover, and many people can maintain normal activities the next day. If colon or rectal polyps are identified and removed during a colonoscopy, recovery may last longer. It is common to experience some gastric discomfort following your colonoscopy exam, like cramping and bloating. Our Digestive Health Associates of Texas doctors will give you further details on what to expect during your recovery.
The gold standard for colon cancer screening
A colonoscopy is often hailed as the most reliable screening technique. Unlike many other screening methods, it serves both as a diagnostic tool and a preventive measure, allowing for a comprehensive examination of the entire colon and the removal of polyps in one procedure. Other screening options lack the ability to remove polyps, so if polyps are found, a colonoscopy will likely be required. You can schedule a colonoscopy at your local Digestive Health Associates of Texas office. Regular colonoscopies can be life-saving. For more information on scheduling a colonoscopy, contact Digestive Health Associates of Texas today.
Colonoscopy Videos
Reviews
The admission ladies were friendly and helpful. When I saw Dr. Nackley he explained what was happening when I had my colonoscopy. He took time with me to answer all my questions and did not rush. I felt from his actions with me that he is concerned with each of his patients. I highly recommend Dr. Nackley!!!
Dr Kumaravel is professional and was able to explain to me everything that was done during my colonoscopy.
Dr. Bass and staff are an awesome bunch. They were friendly, courteous, and very professional. Dr. Bass, I can’t say enough about him. He’s soft spoken, and so kind and gentle. He made me feel so very comfortable while explaining to him my issues, and he took a real interest in my issues and concerns. He performed what was my first a colonoscopy back in May, and I woke up as if I hadn’t been through anything. I woke up feeling absolutely great ( for real), was never sore, never bled and just had an awesome experience while in his care. Doctor Bass you’re the best, and prayerfully I’ll see you again in five😛.
Dr.Sanjay Nayyar and staff are very professional and the nurses were extra nice and caring.The facility is very clean and accommodating.If I have to do another colonoscopy again I wouldn't hesitate to come back to this facility again and use Dr. Sanjay.
I enjoyed meeting Doctor Sai in preparation for my colonoscopy. He is very pleasant and easy to talk to.
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