HOW IS A COLONOSCOPY DONE?

51. HOW IS A COLONOSCOPY DONE?

A colonoscopy is done while a person is asleep (sedated) and lasts anywhere from 15 – 60 minutes, depending on the findings, that person's anatomy (some turns can be difficult) and how well the doctor is able to see. A prep is given the night before and sometimes that morning to clean the colon. But if the laxative isn't effective or the person doesn't take the full amount, a bad prep prolongs the procedure.  Sometimes a repeat procedure is needed after additional measures are taken. Patients are also instructed to stay on clear liquids and then stop eating for a period of time in order to clean the colon more effectively and to lessen possible complications (vomiting and aspiration during the time when the patient is sedated. 

Because a colonoscopy gives the most direct and complete information about patients with IBD, this test is often repeated when IBD seems to be flaring or to monitor the colon every several years to make sure that cancers are not developing.