What is a Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy lets your provider see inside of your rectum and colon using a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera at the end (a colonoscope) to help identify:
- Inflamed or irritated tissue
- Abnormal growths (polyps)
- Ulcers (sores on the intestinal lining)
- Signs of colorectal cancer
Why Do I Need a Colonoscopy?
Your provider may recommend a colonoscopy to:
- Screen for colorectal cancer
- Evaluate or treat bleeding or blockages in the colon or rectum
- Find the cause of symptoms such as bleeding, ongoing diarrhea, stomach pain, or unexpected weight changes
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer is more common than people realize. About 6% of people will develop it in their lifetime. Understanding your risk can help you take simple steps to protect your health.
You may have a higher risk if you:
- Have a close family member diagnosed with colorectal cancer or polyps (especially before age 50, or if more than one family member is affected)
- Have Crohn’s disease ulcerative colitis
- Smoke
- Drink heavily
- Have obesity
Most adults should begin colorectal cancer screening between ages 45 and 75. If you’re at average risk, a colonoscopy is typically recommended once every 10 years. If a polyp is found, you may need follow‑up screenings every 3 to 5 years, depending on the type of polyp.
A colonoscopy can detect polyps or cancer early (often before symptoms appear), making it one of the best tools for prevention and treatment.
Prepping for a Colonoscopy
Proper preparation helps your provider clearly see the inside of your colon during the exam.
What to expect:
- You’ll receive a bowel prep (in pill, powder, or liquid form) with simply instructions to follow the day before your procedure.
- You’ll take part of the prep the night before and the rest the morning of your procedure.
- You may need to follow a clear‑liquid diet for up to three days before the procedure.
- The goal is to clear your colon so your provider has the best view possible.
ATTENTION!
Unless instructed otherwise, patients do not need to complete any labs before a colonoscopy.
What to Expect on Procedure Day
Before
- A nurse reviews your medical history, answers questions, and confirms your bowel prep. You’ll change into a gown and get settled in a private procedure room.
- You’ll receive IV sedation to help you relax. Your care team monitors you throughout.
During
- Your provider gently guides a small, flexible camera through your colon.
- The camera sends images to a monitor for your provider to review. They may remove polyps and collect tissue samples if needed.
- A colonoscopy typically takes 20–45 minutes.
After
- You’ll rest in recovery as the sedation wears off.
- Your provider will review initial findings before you leave.
- If samples were taken, your provider will contact you as soon as results are ready.
Going Home
- Because of the sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home.
- Mild gas or bloating is common.
- Most people return to normal activities by the next day unless told otherwise.
For Referring Providers
Partner with Stormont Vail for coordinated, timely digestive health referrals. We support your treatment plans with specialized expertise and collaborative care.
Refer a Patient:
Stormont Vail Digestive Health Center: (785) 270-4800
Stormont Vail Health Manhattan Campus: (785) 537-2651