Colonoscopy in Texas

Following your colonoscopy, you will be moved to the recovery area where you will be closely monitored as the effects of the sedation diminish. The speed of your recovery will depend on the amount of sedation administered and how your body reacts to it. Typically, patients are alert enough to go home within 45 to 60 minutes.

You should not drive for the remainder of the day, so it's important to arrange transportation home. You will be advised to avoid working, signing important documents, or engaging in heavy physical activity for the rest of the day. Most patients can resume normal eating and drinking after leaving the Endoscopy unit, but you will receive specific guidelines about activities, diet, and medications before you leave.

Your doctor and/or nurse will review the findings of the colonoscopy with you post-exam. Due to the sedative effects, you may not recall the discussion, so it is advisable to have someone accompany you who can also be informed about the results. Additionally, you will receive a written report of the findings to take home. Any results from biopsies are typically available within a week.

Are there alternatives to a colonoscopy?

The alternatives to a colonoscopy largely depend on the reasons for the examination. While a colonoscopy is generally the most effective method for assessing and addressing colon abnormalities and is the only preventative measure against colorectal cancer, there are other diagnostic tools available. These include x-ray techniques such as a barium enema and virtual CT scans. However, these methods are primarily diagnostic and do not allow for the direct treatment of findings; any abnormalities detected typically require a follow-up with either a colonoscopy or surgical intervention for treatment.

Colonoscopies are generally considered to be very safe, with complications arising in fewer than 1% of all procedures, most of which are non-life-threatening. Before the examination, you will discuss and sign a consent form with the nursing staff, where any questions or concerns can be addressed with your physician.

There are possible risks related to the sedation used during the procedure, including allergic reactions, respiratory difficulties, cardiovascular effects, and irritation at the injection site.

During the procedure, there is a risk of bleeding, especially if biopsies are taken, or polyps are removed. Significant bleeding that might necessitate a blood transfusion or hospitalization is rare but can occur immediately during the exam or within two weeks following the procedure.

Perforation, or a puncture of the colon, is another potential risk, which might be detected during the examination or become apparent later. This complication generally requires surgical intervention and hospitalization, although it is also rare, even in cases where polyps are removed.

It is critical to contact your doctor immediately if you experience worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever after the procedure.

While colonoscopies are highly effective, they are not infallible; there is a small, accepted risk that certain abnormalities, including polyps and cancers, may not be detected. It is crucial to maintain regular follow-ups with your provider at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants and report any new or ongoing symptoms.