Colonoscopy in Texas

Ready to Consult a GI Physician?

Find a Provider

A colonoscopy is an endoscopic exam where a lengthy, thin, flexible scope is inserted through the rectum and advanced through the length of the large intestine (colon). The scope has a light and a camera on the end of it, permitting the specialist to explore the interior of the colon. A colonoscopy could be carried out to discover the reason for GI symptoms, such as loose stool, bleeding, gut pain, or strange x-ray findings.

A colonoscopy may also be conducted on a patient 45 years old (or younger, depending on their history) to test for colorectal cancer and polyps, even if they have no symptoms indicating a problem. As leading masters in gastrointestinal well-being, the board-certified GI specialists at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants frequently perform colonoscopy procedures. Please call us to request a colonoscopy in Texas.

What are the benefits of a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy exams offer the most effective protection against colon cancer development, so it is important to schedule this colon cancer screening as advised by your GI doctor. Routine colonoscopies offer a number of benefits for your GI wellness and general health. A few of the benefits of a colonoscopy include:

  • Identifies IBD, diverticulosis, and additional GI concerns
  • Detects early signs of colorectal cancer
  • Identifies and removes abnormal polyps
  • Is the most effective testing option for colon and rectal cancer
  • Could be an exam that saves your life

Due to advancing technology, colonoscopies are performed more conveniently, with increased comfort, and with greater precision than ever before.

You will receive directions from your provider at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants regarding the bowel preparation needed to get you ready for your procedure. The majority of individuals consume only clear fluids the whole day before the test. There are numerous alternatives for laxatives to entirely empty out the colon. It is important to follow the directions given to you by your specialist. There may also be additional orders concerning your prescriptions. In most cases, your prescriptions will be continued as normal. In certain situations, particularly in patients on blood thinners (i.e., Plavix®, Coumadin®, warfarin, anti-inflammatories, or aspirin) and in diabetics, your provider may give specialized instructions. Patients will be directed not to consume anything by mouth after midnight except for medications.

You will be asked to arrive at the endoscopy location 1 – 1.5 hours prior to your exam. This is to permit time to fill out documentation and prepare for the procedure. You will be directed to wear a medical gown. An intravenous (IV) catheter will be inserted in your arm so that sedation can be administered. You will be hooked up to machines that will enable the doctor and support team to watch your pulse, arterial pressure, electrocardiogram, breathing, and oxygen concentration during and following the colonoscopy.

Once in the procedure room, you will be asked to lie on your left side on the gurney. The IV medication will be administered in small amounts to protect your safety and ensure you only receive as much as is needed. Once you are sedated, the doctor will do a rectal checkup. The colonoscope will then be softly introduced into the rectum. The scope will be attentively fed throughout the colon to where the small bowel and colon join. A small quantity of air is fed through the scope and inside the colon to help your provider view the lining of the colon. Any fluid leftover in the colon after the preparation can be washed and suctioned out by way of the scope.

Depending on the findings of the colonoscopy, various other procedures may be done at the time of the exam, like biopsies, elimination of any growths, and the management of any bleeding that may have been seen through the scope. When the exam is finished, your GI specialist will suction out as much of the leftover air and fluid as they can through the scope. Depending on the results, the procedure takes around 15 – 30 minutes.

After the colonoscopy is done, you will be escorted to the recuperation room to be supervised while the IV drug begins to wear off. The volume of sedation used for the procedure and your individual reaction to the drug will decide how soon you will wake up, though most patients are awake enough for discharge within 45 – 60 minutes.

You will not be allowed to operate a vehicle for the remainder of the afternoon after your colonoscopy with our Texas team, so you should make plans to have a ride back to your house. You will also be instructed not to work, sign important paperwork, or undergo strenuous activities for the remainder of the day. Most individuals are able to consume food and consume liquids normally following their departure from the endoscopy office; however, specific directions concerning physical activity, eating, and medicines will be provided prior to release.

Once the procedure is done, your provider will review the results of the test with you. Most people will not remember what they hear after the procedure due to the effects of the sedation. If practical, you are advised to bring a friend or family member with you who can be present for the discussion. We will also provide a printed record for you to take home. Patients can usually expect to receive any biopsy reports within seven days.

Are there alternatives to a colonoscopy?

To a degree, the alternatives to the exam will count on the reason for scheduling the colonoscopy. In many situations, a colonoscopy is the best process to diagnose and address irregularities in the colon. At the same time, there are types of x-rays that can diagnose the colon, such as a barium enema or a virtual CT scan. These are just diagnostic procedures, though. A colonoscopy or surgical procedure will be needed to treat any abnormalities.

A colonoscopy is usually a low-risk procedure. In general, troubles happen in fewer than 1% of people. Most complications are not too serious. However, if a problem arises, it may require hospitalization and an operation. Before the exam, a permission document will be checked with the patient by the support personnel. Any concerns or questions that come up at this point should be addressed with your doctor before the procedure starts.

Drug responses related to the IV medication can happen. The list of potential reactions includes, but is not limited to, difficulty breathing, allergic responses, impacts on the circulatory system and blood pressure, and irritation of the vein employed to administer the IV drug.

Bleeding can occur with biopsies and the extraction of growths. Substantial bleeding, which may need a blood donation or hospitalization, is very uncommon. Be that as it may, bleeding can occur during the procedure or up to two weeks after the exam if a polyp is extracted.

Perforation or puncture of the colon can happen. This might be identified at the time of the exam, or it might not be evident until later in the afternoon. In the majority of instances, a puncture will necessitate surgery and hospitalization. This is an uncommon issue, even when polyps are removed.

It is crucial that you contact your physician's office quickly if symptoms emerge following the test, like heightening intestinal pain, bleeding, or elevated temperature.

Like any other exam, a colonoscopy is not foolproof. There is a minuscule, recognized danger that health concerns, such as polyps and cancers, can be overlooked at the time of the exam. It is important to maintain appointments with your provider at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants as advised and notify them of any developing or constant symptoms.

Find A Provider Find A Location
When should you schedule a colonoscopy?

We recommend that individuals with an average risk of colon cancer begin having colonoscopy exams at age 45. If your chances for developing colon cancer are higher or you have concerning signs of colon cancer, our GI specialists might recommend a colonoscopy before that age.

How often should you have a colonoscopy?

Doctors suggest getting colonoscopies every ten years for those of average risk, who have favorable health, and when they have colonoscopy results that reveal no concerns. Following your colon cancer screening, your GI doctor will inform you of how often you should undergo colonoscopies moving forward.

Is a colonoscopy a painful procedure?

Sedation is administered before a colonoscopy to help ensure your comfort level during the exam. Depending on the type of sedation given, you may reach an intensely relaxed state and even feel sleepy. Many individuals have little to no recollection of the procedure. When you visit for a consultation, do not hesitate to ask your colonoscopy doctor what to expect during the exam.

What is the average recovery time following a colonoscopy exam?

It usually takes about 24 hours to recuperate after a colonoscopy screening. Many people can resume their regular routine the next day. When colorectal polyps are identified and removed, the recovery time will likely last about a week. It is common to have abdominal discomfort after a colonoscopy exam, such as bloating and cramping. Our Texas Digestive Disease Consultants providers will give you further information on what to anticipate during recovery.

The colonoscopy is believed to be the "gold standard" of all testing systems for colon cancer. Unlike other testing approaches, a colonoscopy enables the study of the whole colon. Aside from allowing for the most thorough investigation, it also makes the exposure of tumors and their removal possible in just one test. For several other screening systems, the ability to eliminate growths is simply not possible, and if the procedure shows evidence of growths, you will potentially require a colonoscopy. A regular colonoscopy in Texas just might protect your life. If you would like to learn more about how to request a colonoscopy, talk to Texas Digestive Disease Consultants to find a location near you.

Had colonoscopy and endoscopy both went well. Would recommend Dr. Jan Prazak

P.S. Google

I went to Dr Womeldorph on Tuesday 07/18/23 for my colonoscopy. From the receptionist to ALL of his nurse’s and the anesthesiologist, and Dr Womeldorph, made me feel like I was the only one important to be taken care of that day (and I knew they were busy) however it felt so good the way I was treated! I would recommend Dr Womeldorph and his “team” to anyone that wants excellent, exceptional service & care!!!

B.K. Google

I had a great experience with Dr. Mansour. I was a first time colonoscopy patient and I was a little nervous, but hey we need to take care of our health. This clinic was really awesome to deal with. The doc was great, Andrew the nurse practitioner is super informative. I felt like both clinicians listened to my issues and gave me sound medical advice. I highly recommend from another healthcare provider.

T.T. Google

This was my third procedure with Dr. Bolin, and especially given the nature (colonoscopy), it went very well. Dr. Bolin demonstrates genuine care and concern for me every time, explains things to me in plain English (without talking down to me), and patiently answers all of my questions. He is thorough, professional, personable, and has a friendly, easygoing manner. I highly recommend him!

L.H. Google

My consultation was very useful in determining the need for a colonoscopy. Dr Chung explained with simplicity and ensured I understood all.

P.G. Google

939

Total Reviews

4.9

Average Rating