What Is A Lower Gi Endoscopy (Colonoscopy)?
A lower GI endoscopy also referred to as a colonoscopy, is a procedure used to examine a person’s large intestine (colon). There is more than one type of lower GI endoscopy, including colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy.
A colonoscopy is used to examine the lining of the large intestine via an endoscope, a long, thin tube that is flexible and has a camera at one end.
When Is A Lower Gi Endoscopy Needed?
A colonoscopy may be warranted for symptoms such as:
- Chronic diarrhea
- Significant changes in bowel habits
- Severe abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
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How To Prepare For The Lower Gi Endoscopy Procedure
Before undergoing a lower GI endoscopy, your doctor will provide specific instructions about preparing for your procedure. In order to ensure your colon can be thoroughly and accurately examined, patients will need to consume a laxative regimen.
You will also need to arrange for someone to escort you home from your procedure. Before your colonoscopy, you will receive medication so that you experience no discomfort throughout the procedure. Once sedated, your doctor will carefully guide the endoscope through your digestive tract.
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If you believe you may need a lower GI endoscopy, the first step is to consult with a skilled gastroenterologist. Call 6366109933 or use the form on this page to learn more about our GI services and treatments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Diagnostic Lower GI Scopy, also known as a colonoscopy, is a procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the rectum, colon, and lower gastrointestinal tract for abnormalities.
Your doctor may recommend this procedure to investigate symptoms such as rectal bleeding, persistent diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss.
A Lower GI Scopy can help diagnose colon polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, colorectal cancer, diverticular disease, and other abnormalities of the large intestine.
Before the procedure, you will need to follow bowel preparation instructions, which may include a clear liquid diet, prescribed laxatives, and temporarily stopping certain medications as advised by your doctor.
The procedure is usually performed under sedation to keep you comfortable. Most patients experience little to no pain during the examination.
Yes. If any abnormal tissue is found, your doctor can safely collect a biopsy during the procedure for laboratory examination without causing significant discomfort.
The procedure generally takes about 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the findings and whether additional procedures such as a biopsy or polyp removal are required.
Lower GI Scopy is considered a safe procedure. Although rare, possible complications include bleeding, infection, or perforation of the colon. Your doctor will explain these risks before the procedure.
Your doctor will usually discuss the initial findings immediately after the procedure. If a biopsy is taken, the laboratory results may take several days.
Yes. Most patients are discharged on the same day. If sedation is used, you should arrange for someone to accompany you home and avoid driving or operating machinery until the effects of the sedation have worn off.
