What happens during a colonoscopy procedure?
A colonoscopy involves the use of a colonoscope—a long, thin, flexible instrument connected to a camera and video display
monitor.
The colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and moved through the entire colon. If the healthcare provider notices anything
of concern during your
colonoscopy, a biopsy (removing a small amount of tissue to examine) may be performed.
A colonoscopy makes it possible to find and remove abnormal tissue growths without surgery. An abnormal tissue growth is
called a
polyp (pronounced pahl-ip). A colonoscopy is more accurate than all other methods to detect polyps and early
cancer. The ability to remove polyps during a colonoscopy is a major step toward the
prevention of colon cancer.
The entire colonoscopy procedure usually takes less than an hour. Mild sedation is typically provided to relieve anxiety
and discomfort. For this reason, you will be required to have someone drive you home after the procedure. Following the
colonoscopy, you may experience bloating, which will quickly improve. Most patients can resume eating a regular diet
later that day.
People older than 50 years should undergo a colonoscopy every 10 years. If you have additional risk factors, healthcare
providers could recommend the procedure be completed more frequently.
Before a colonoscopy can be done, the bowel must first be thoroughly cleared of all stool—this process is called a
colonoscopy preparation or
colon prep for short. This is completed prior to the exam, as prescribed by your healthcare
provider.
Why do you need a bowel prep?
Learn about other colon cancer screening methods.
What puts you at risk for colon cancer?
Important Information About OsmoPrep
OsmoPrep Tablets are used to clean the colon before colonoscopy in adults aged 18 years or older. Do not
take OsmoPrep if you are allergic or hypersensitive to sodium phosphate salts or to any of the ingredients
in OsmoPrep. Before considering OsmoPrep, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including
any heart conditions such as congestive heart failure, any kidney impairment such as electrolyte
disturbances, any abdominal problems such as bowel obstruction or motility issues, and any history of
seizures. Also tell your doctor about any medications that you are taking or if you may be pregnant.
The most common side effects in studies with OsmoPrep were abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, nausea,
and vomiting. Adequate hydration before, during, and after the use of OsmoPrep Tablets is recommended.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch,
or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Consult with your physician to see if this product is right for you.
Copyright ©2008 Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc. All rights reserved. Use of this site signifies your agreement to the
Terms of Use and Legal Restrictions
and the
Privacy Policy.