Colonoscopy in Utah

Once your colonoscopy is completed, you will be escorted to the recovery area where you'll be monitored as the effects of the sedation diminish. The speed of your recovery depends on the amount of sedative administered and how your body reacts to it, but typically, patients are alert and ready for discharge within 45 to 60 minutes.

Driving is prohibited for the remainder of the day, so you'll need to arrange transportation home. You're also advised to avoid working, signing important documents, or engaging in vigorous activities for the day. Although most patients can resume normal eating and drinking shortly after leaving the Endoscopy unit, specific guidelines about activities, diet, and medications will be provided before you leave.

Your physician or a nurse will discuss the initial findings with you post-procedure, although the sedative might impair your memory of the conversation. It is advisable to have someone with you who can also be briefed about the results. A written report will be provided to you at discharge, and any results from biopsies are typically communicated within a week.

Are there other options for a colonoscopy?

The alternatives available largely depend on the reasons for considering a colonoscopy. Generally, a colonoscopy is the most effective method for both diagnosing and treating issues within the colon and is the only preventive measure against colorectal cancer. However, other diagnostic tools such as a barium enema and virtual CT scan can assess the colon but do not allow for treatment. Any detected abnormalities typically require either a follow-up colonoscopy or surgical intervention for treatment.

Colonoscopy is generally a very safe procedure with complications occurring in less than 1% of cases, and these are rarely life-threatening. Before the exam, patients will review and sign a consent form with the nursing staff, providing an opportunity to discuss any concerns with your physician.

Possible complications include reactions to the sedation, such as allergic reactions, respiratory difficulties, cardiovascular effects, and irritation at the injection site.

Bleeding might occur during biopsies or polyp removal but significant bleeding that requires blood transfusion or hospitalization is extremely rare. Bleeding could manifest immediately during the procedure or up to two weeks afterward if a polyp was removed.

Another potential complication is perforation of the colon, which could be identified during the exam or might only become evident later. Such perforations typically necessitate surgical intervention and hospitalization, though this is also an uncommon occurrence.

It’s crucial to contact your physician immediately if you experience worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever after the procedure.

While colonoscopies are highly effective, no test is infallible. There is a small inherent risk that some abnormalities, such as polyps or cancers, might be missed during the exam. Continuous follow-up with your Utah Gastroenterology doctor is essential, and you should report any new or persistent symptoms.