Colonoscopy of the intestine: what it is, how long it lasts and how safe it is

A referral for a colonoscopy rarely inspires enthusiasm — more often anxiety and a lot of questions. Let's calmly go through what this examination is, how it is performed, and what is really worth worrying about and what is not.

What colonoscopy and fibercolonoscopy are

Colonoscopy (videocolonoscopy, VCS; fibercolonoscopy, FCS) is an endoscopic therapeutic and diagnostic method: the doctor examines and assesses the inner surface of the colon using an endoscope. Colonoscopes are thin flexible tubes with a camera and light at the end. The procedure examines the entire large intestine and rectum. Other methods (MRI, CT, "virtual colonoscopy", irrigoscopy, capsule endoscopy) do not replace colonoscopy in terms of informativeness.

What intestinal endoscopy shows

Intestinal endoscopy makes it possible to visually diagnose inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and others), submucosal and epithelial neoplasms (polyps, tumors), and diverticulosis. During the procedure, biopsy, removal of neoplasms and other manipulations are possible. It is referred for bleeding from the anus or blood in the stool, persistent diarrhea or constipation, weight loss or unexplained fatigue, as well as for screening for polyps, Crohn's disease, diverticular disease or bowel cancer. Most often nothing alarming is found.

How preparation and bowel cleansing affect the result

Bowel cleansing is needed so that the doctor can examine the intestinal walls; without it, colonoscopy may not be performed. Preparation includes taking laxatives that cleanse the intestine so that the doctor can examine the walls; the specific rules for diet and laxative intake are given by the doctor or clinic. The laxative causes diarrhea, so during the preparation period the patient needs access to a toilet. The doctor is informed about pregnancy.

How the examination is performed and how long a colonoscopy lasts

On the day of the procedure, you must not eat; the time to stop drinking will be specified separately. The doctor or nurse will explain the course of the examination. The tube with the camera is inserted through the anus — you may feel its insertion, but there should be no pain. A little gas or water is supplied inside to straighten the intestine: a feeling of bloating and the urge to go to the toilet are possible. If there is pain, the doctor or nurse may offer a painkiller, sedation or a gas mixture. How long a colonoscopy lasts: usually from 30 to 60 minutes, in the clinic it takes about 2 hours. After sedation, you must not drive for 24 hours, so you usually return home with an accompanying person.

Is colonoscopy safe and is it harmful to have it often

This is a common and simple procedure. Complications are rare but possible: reaction to sedation, bleeding from the anus, damage to the intestine (perforation). Bloating and cramps last 2–3 hours, slight bleeding or blood in the stool — a couple of days, this is normal. With an increased risk of intestinal problems, regular colonoscopies may be prescribed once every few years.

Colonoscopy with hemorrhoids and possible limitations

Colonoscopy can help confirm that the cause of symptoms is not cancer but another bowel disease, such as hemorrhoids. Before the procedure, the doctor clarifies all diseases, medications and supplements — some of them may need to be temporarily discontinued. He also explains which pain relief options are available in the clinic.

• Blood from the anus or blood in the stool
• Persistent diarrhea or constipation
• Weight loss or severe unexplained fatigue
• Screening for polyps and bowel cancer

Colonoscopy itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — if after it severe bleeding from the anus begins or the blood increases, chest pain appears, severe abdominal pain that worsens, or vomiting does not stop.

This material is for reference: it explains the essence of the examination but does not replace consultation with a doctor who knows your situation.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer