Colonoscopy in Little Rock, AR
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Find a ProviderWhat is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an endoscopic test where a long, skinny, pliable tube or “scope” is placed into the rectum and run through the length of the large intestine (colon). The scope has a flashlight and a video camera on the end of it, which allows the physician to explore the interior of the colon. A colonoscopy may be carried out to determine the cause of GI symptoms, such as loose stool, bloody stool, stomach pain, or unusual x-ray results.
A colonoscopy could also be performed on a patient with no symptoms at age 45 or younger contingent on the client's history, to test for colon cancer and polyps. As leading experts in digestive health, the board-certified GI specialists at GastroArkansas commonly perform colonoscopy procedures. Please call us the learn more about colonoscopies in Little Rock, AR.
What are the benefits of a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is the greatest safeguard against colon cancer development, making it highly important to schedule these screenings as advised by your GI specialist. Regular colonoscopy exams offer many benefits for your GI wellness and overall health. Some of the benefits of this colon cancer screening include the following:
- Can identify IBD, diverticulosis, and other gastrointestinal concerns
- Discovers the initial signs of colorectal cancer
- Finds and removes precancerous polyps
- Acts as the most effective exam for colon and rectal cancer
- Can be a life-saving screening
With the help of the latest technology, colorectal cancer screenings are performed quicker, in greater comfort, and more precisely than ever before.
What should I expect during a colonoscopy?
You will get orders from your physician at GastroArkansas in relation to the required bowel preparation to get you ready for your exam. Most individuals consume only clear liquids the full 24 hours prior to the test. There are numerous different choices for laxatives to completely empty out the colon. It is really crucial to obey the directions given to you by your physician. There might also be additional instructions regarding your medications. In the majority of instances, your prescriptions will be continued as normal. However, in specific situations, particularly in persons on blood thinners (i.e., warfarin, Plavix®, Coumadin®, aspirin, anti-inflammatories) and in diabetics, specific instructions could be specified. Clients will be instructed not to take anything after midnight except for prescriptions.
You might be instructed to come to the endoscopy location 1 – 1.5 hours before your procedure. This is to allow time to fill out documentation and prepare for the colonoscopy. You will be directed to wear a hospital gown. An intravenous (IV) catheter will be started in your vein so that calming drugs can be given. You will be hooked up to machines that will enable the physician and staff to control your heart rate, arterial tension, electrocardiogram, breath, and oxygen level during and following the colonoscopy.
Once in the exam room, you will be asked to lie on your left side of the bed. The IV drugs will be given. Small quantities are administered to help ensure your safety and give only the level you require personally. When a satisfactory level of calm is achieved, the specialist will do a rectal exam. The colonoscope will then be gently introduced into the rectum. The scope will be cautiously advanced through the colon to where the small intestine and colon come together. A small amount of air is pumped through the scope and into the colon to allow the doctor to view the interior of the colon. Any liquid eft in the bowel after the preparation can be cleaned and absorbed by way of the scope.
Based on the results of the colonoscopy, several things can be performed at the time of the exam, including biopsies, the removal of polyps, and the repression of bleeding. At the conclusion of the colonoscopy, as much of the oxygen and leftover water as viable is suctioned out of the colon by way of the scope. Based on the results, the test takes about 15 – 30 minutes.
After the procedure is done, you will be escorted to the recovery room to be watched while the sedation begins to leave your system. The quantity of medication used throughout the test and your individual reaction to the sedation will dictate how rapidly you will awaken, though many people are awake enough for dismissal in around 45 – 60 minutes.
You will be advised not to operate a vehicle for the remainder of the day after your colonoscopy with our Little Rock, AR team. Therefore, you will be required to obtain a ride home. You will also be ordered not to work, sign important paperwork, or undergo demanding activities for the rest of the afternoon. Most individuals are able to eat and consume liquids as usual following their dismissal from the endoscopy unit, however, personalized directions regarding physical activity, eating, and prescriptions will be offered prior to discharge.
When will I get my results?
After the exam, the doctor and/or nurse will review the results of the exam with you. Many patients will not remember what they are told after the procedure due to the effects of the medication. It is suggested, if practical, to take a friend or family member with you to whom the outcome can also be discussed. You will also return home with a written account. You might be told of any biopsy conclusions generally within seven days.
What are the other options for a colonoscopy?
To a degree, the alternatives to the test will depend on the grounds for needing the colonoscopy, to begin with. In many instances, a colonoscopy is the most ideal process to evaluate and handle deformities in the colon. Though, there are other x-rays that can appraise the colon, such as a barium enema and virtual CT scan. These are, though, only diagnostic tests. Addressing abnormalities will require a colonoscopy or surgery.
Are there any risks with a colonoscopy?
Usually, a colonoscopy is a really safe procedure. All in all, troubles appear in less than 1% of clients. Many problems are not grave. Be that as it may, if a difficulty occurs, it could need hospitalization and surgery. Before the exam, a permission form will be gone over with the individual by the support team. Should any inquiries or problems appear, these can be discussed with your doctor prior to starting the procedure.
Prescription reactions associated with IV medication can arise. These can contain but are not confined to, allergic reactions, trouble breathing, impacts on the circulatory system and blood pressure, and discomfort of the vein used to give the medication.
Bleeding can occur with biopsies and the removal of tumors. Again, considerable bleeding, which may require a blood donation or hospitalization, is very rare. Be that as it may, bleeding can happen at the time of the procedure or up to two weeks following the test if a tumor is removed.
Perforation or puncture of the intestine can transpire. This may be recognized during the test, or it could not be apparent before later in the day. In many instances, a perforation will require an operation and hospitalization. This is a rare complication, even when tumors are removed.
It is extremely important that you call your physician's clinic immediately if symptoms occur following the test, like increasing abdominal discomfort, bleeding, or fever.
Like most other exams, a colonoscopy is not infallible. There is a minuscule, recognized danger that abnormalities, like polyps and cancers, can be overlooked during the procedure. It is important to follow up with your specialist at GastroArkansas as instructed and tell them of any recent or lasting symptoms.
Colonoscopy FAQs
By what age should you schedule a colonoscopy screening?
It’s suggested that individuals with an average risk for colon cancer start having colonoscopy exams once they turn 45 years old. In the event your chances of getting colon cancer are higher, or if you are experiencing colon cancer signs or symptoms, our team of gastroenterologists may suggest a colon cancer screening earlier than age 45.
How often should you have a colonoscopy?
GI doctors recommend getting colonoscopy screenings about every ten years for patients of general risk, who are in good health, and have screening results that are within normal limits. Following your colonoscopy, your gastroenterologist will let you know how many years apart you should have colon cancer screenings moving forward.
Is my colonoscopy going to be an uncomfortable process?
Sedation services will be provided before your colon exam to help ensure your comfort level throughout the procedure. Based 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 their procedure. During your consultation, do not hesitate to speak with your gastroenterologist about what you can anticipate when having a colonoscopy.
What’s the average recovery time for a colonoscopy?
Generally, patients take about a full day to recover following a colonoscopy, and some are able to resume normal activities the next day. If colon or rectal polyps are found and removed, however, the recovery time will likely take longer. It is common to experience GI symptoms following your colonoscopy exam, such as bloating and cramping. Our GastroArkansas team can discuss additional details on what to expect while you recover.
The gold standard for colorectal cancer screening
A colonoscopy is considered the “gold standard” of all testing systems for colon cancer. Unlike different screening systems, a colonoscopy provides for the investigation of the whole colon. As well as providing the most thorough screening, it also allows for the exposure of tumors and their removal during one exam. For some different screening methods, the ability to remove polyps is not available and if the test returns affirmative for tumors, you will likely require a colonoscopy. You can schedule a colonoscopy in Little Rock, AR by contacting our practice. A routine colonoscopy just may save your life. If you would like to know more about how to get a colonoscopy, talk to GastroArkansas today.
Reviews
Dr Heath saved my life 23 years ago, when a colonoscopy he performed found cancer, I was 43 at the time. He removed it, and I have been cancer free ever since. I go back every 3 years for a scope, and he has removed polyps on about half of my visits. He has my highest regard as a doctor, and is a nice friendly person that you can talk to. I have never witnessed any of his staff being rude to anyone. They are kind and competent.
Had a colonoscopy, yesterday. In addition to everything going really quickly and smoothly (no puns intended), Dr. Heath and the entire staff was awesome! God bless them all!!!!!
Great experience in the office, to preop, colonoscopy, to recovery. Staff very professional explained every step that was to be done. Very clean in all areas. Have been with Dr Nutt for along time. The worst part of colonoscopy is the prep but this too will pass.
The day of my colonoscopy, I encountered friendly, polite staff, who took me back to the treatment area very quickly and got me ready for the procedure. Once the procedure was completed I was readied for discharge and Dr Nutt came in to advise what she found. I am very pleased with the care I received from the wonderful staff of GastroArkansas.
After my mom passed away from cancer that originated in her G.I., I told my PCP I wanted a colonoscopy, and he referred me to Dr. Pennington. It was almost two months before he had an opening, and I can understand why he stays so busy. Aside from my PCP, Dr. Pennington is the other best doctor I have ever seen. During my appointment, I got a bit emotional talking about my mom- because he actually listened!! He was genuinely interested in what I had to stay and did not make me feel like he was in a hurry to get me out. We scheduled another appointment for me to have the procedure- I think mostly to assuage my fears because I’m pretty sure he thinks it isn’t completely necessary just yet, but he could tell I was panicking about it. So, I would definitely recommend him to anyone. He was so, so nice…plus he is easy on the eyes lol
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