Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a painless outpatient procedure used to examine the rectum and entire large intestine using a flexible, camera-tipped tube called a colonoscope for a variety of reasons.

Screening exam

A screening colonoscopy is used to detect colorectal cancer for people without any symptoms. During the procedure, doctors can remove growths which may eliminate the risk of cancer or catch it at its earliest, most treatable stage. Most people should get their first colonoscopy at age 45, but it may be recommended earlier for those with higher than average risk. If your initial screening shows no signs of risk, you may not need another exam for 10 years.

Diagnostic exam

A diagnostic colonoscopy is used to investigate symptoms that could be related to colorectal cancer or a digestive disorder. It may be helpful for finding the cause of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea and other intestinal problems.

Surveillance

A colonoscopy is also used to follow-up on previous tests and procedures in the colon, or to prepare for a new surgery.

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