Visual exam: Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy lets your doctor look inside your colon and remove polyps during the same procedure.

Recommended for high-risk individuals and available to all adults as a primary screening option

  • Usually every 10 years for average-risk adults with normal results (no polyps removed and no family history).
  • Performed with sedation.
  • Allows doctors to find and remove polyps during the same procedure, helping prevent cancer.

What to expect

  • You will follow prep instructions the day before, including a special diet and laxative to clean out your colon.
  • The procedure usually takes 20 to 30 minutes while you are sedated.
  • Most people go home the same day.

Recovery

Most people feel back to normal by the next day.

Risks

Risks are low but can include bleeding or, rarely, a small tear in the colon wall.

Your provider will review the risks and benefits with you.

Make an appointment today

To schedule your colon cancer screening, call 800.922.0000.

Have questions? We're here to help.

Contact us to make an appointment

800.922.0000