Colonoscopy in Little Rock, AR
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Find a ProviderWhat is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure where a long, thin, flexible tube, or “scope,” is inserted into the rectum and advanced through the entire colon (large intestine). The scope is equipped with a light and a camera at its end, enabling the GI provider to examine the lining of the colon. This procedure is often performed to diagnose the cause of gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, bleeding, abdominal pain, or abnormal x-ray results.
Additionally, a colonoscopy may be performed on an asymptomatic patient at age 45 or sooner, depending on the patient’s history, to screen for colon cancer and polyps. It remains the only colorectal prevention strategy available. As leading specialists in digestive health, the board-certified gastroenterologists at GastroArkansas routinely perform colonoscopy exams. Please contact a location in Little Rock, AR near you to learn more.
What are the benefits of a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy exams are the most reliable defense against developing colon cancer, making them crucial for individuals over 45 or those at higher risk of colon cancer to undergo as recommended by their provider. Regular colonoscopy screenings offer numerous benefits for your gastrointestinal and general health. Some of the advantages include:
- Serving as the most effective screening option for colon and/or rectal cancer
- Detecting early signs of colon and rectal cancer
- Potentially being a life-saving exam
- Identifying cases of diverticulosis, IBD, and other conditions
- Detecting and extracting abnormal growths
Thanks to the latest technology, colorectal cancer screenings are now performed faster, more comfortably, and more precisely than in previous years.
What should I expect during a colonoscopy?
You will receive detailed instructions from your provider at GastroArkansas regarding the necessary bowel preparation for your exam. Most patients will need to stick to clear liquids the entire day before the exam. Several laxative options are available to ensure the colon is thoroughly cleaned. It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by your GI provider. Additional instructions about your medications will also be given. In most cases, you will continue your medications as usual. However, special instructions will be provided for patients on blood thinners (e.g., Coumadin, warfarin, Plavix, aspirin, anti-inflammatories) and for diabetics. Patients will be advised not to consume anything by mouth after midnight except for medications.
You will be asked to arrive at the endoscopy center at your selected Little Rock, AR location 1 to 1.5 hours before your exam to fill out paperwork and prepare. You will change into a medical gown, and an intravenous (IV) catheter will be started in your arm for sedation administration. You will be connected to equipment that will allow the doctor and staff to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, pulse, electrocardiogram, breathing, and oxygen levels during and after the exam.
In the exam room, you will lie on your left side on the stretcher. The IV sedation will begin with small doses to ensure your safety and provide the necessary amount individually. Once adequately sedated, your specialist will perform a rectal exam and gently insert the colonoscope into the rectum. The scope will be advanced through the colon to where the small bowel and colon meet. A small amount of air is introduced through the scope into the colon to aid visibility. Any remaining fluid in the colon can be washed and suctioned out through the scope.
Depending on the exam's findings, several procedures can be performed, such as biopsies, polyp removal, and bleeding control. Once the procedure is complete, as much air and remaining fluid as possible is suctioned out of the colon through the scope. The exam typically takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the findings.
When will I get my results?
After your colonoscopy, you will be taken to the recovery room to be monitored while the sedation wears off. The amount of sedation used and your individual response will determine how quickly you wake up, though most patients are ready for discharge within 45 to 60 minutes.
Since you won’t be allowed to drive for the rest of the day, make sure to arrange a ride home in advance. You will also be advised not to work, sign important papers, or engage in strenuous activities for the remainder of the day. Most patients can eat and drink normally after discharge, but specific instructions regarding activity, diet, and medications will be provided before you leave.
After the procedure, the physician or nurse will discuss the findings with you. However, due to the sedation, most patients won’t remember this discussion. It's a good idea to bring someone with you who can also hear the results. You will also receive a typed report to take home. If any biopsies were taken, you can expect to receive those results within about a week.
What are the other options for a colonoscopy?
The alternatives to a colonoscopy largely depend on the reason for needing the procedure in the first place. Generally, a colonoscopy is the most effective method for evaluating and treating abnormalities in the colon. It is the only prevention method available for colorectal cancer. However, there are other diagnostic x-rays that can evaluate the colon, such as a barium enema and a virtual CT scan. These alternatives are strictly diagnostic exams, and any treatment of abnormalities will still require a colonoscopy or surgery.
Are there any risks with a colonoscopy?
Generally speaking, a colonoscopy is a very safe exam. Complications occur in less than 1% of patients, and most are not life-threatening. However, if a complication does occur, it may require hospitalization and surgery. Before the exam, the nursing staff will review a consent form with the patient. If any questions or concerns arise, they can be discussed with your provider before beginning the procedure.
Medication reactions associated with sedation are possible. These reactions can include, but are not limited to, allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, effects on the heart and blood pressure, and irritation of the vein used to administer the medication.
Bleeding can happen with biopsies and the removal of polyps. Significant bleeding, which might require a blood transfusion or hospitalization, is very uncommon. It is important to note that bleeding can occur during the exam or up to two weeks after the exam if a polyp is removed.
Puncture or perforation of the colon can also occur. This may be identified during the exam, or it may not become noticeable until later in the day. In most cases, a perforation will require surgery and hospitalization. However, this complication is uncommon, even when polyps are removed.
It is very important to contact your provider's office immediately if symptoms develop after the procedure, such as worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever.
Just like any other procedure, a colonoscopy has risks. There is a small, accepted risk that abnormalities, including polyps and cancers, could be missed during the examination. It is essential to continue to follow up with your GastroArkansas provider as advised and report any new or continued 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 widely regarded as the “gold standard” among screening methods for colon cancer. Unlike many other screening options, a colonoscopy not only examines the entire colon, but also allows for the removal of polyps during the same procedure. Other screening methods do not offer this capability, and if polyps are detected, a follow-up colonoscopy will be necessary. Scheduling a colonoscopy at one of our Little Rock, AR offices can be a crucial step in preventing colon cancer. Regular colonoscopies have the potential to save your life. For more information on scheduling a colonoscopy, contact GastroArkansas today.
Reviews
Dr Nutt and her great staffing made me feel very comfortable during my colonoscopy and I was so at ease during the exam.
BEST experience ever in having a colonoscopy. And we all know they’re NOT a thrill to undergo. Dr. Robertson is thorough, precise and his professional manner is the ABSOLUTE BEST! Has a great sense of humor too🤠!! He has an awesome and caring staff to help, guide and take care of you before and after the procedures as well. Highly recommend him to anyone!!!
Dr. Backstedt performed my colonoscopy this morning and I have nothing but good things to say about him and the staff. From the receptionist who checked me in to the nurses in the back and the anesthesiologist, they were all amazing!!
This was the nicest office I’ve been to in a while. They were so nice and patient with me as I tried to schedule my colonoscopy. My prep supply was sent within days and the instructions given during my visit were very helpful.
I would highly recommend Dr. Johnson at Gastro Arkansas. In fact I will be bringing my mother to him when she is due for her next colonoscopy. I had my first screening recently and I was extremely nervous about having a colonoscopy. During my consultation with Dr. Johnson, I repeatedly expressed that I had a lot of anxiety about it. He was very patient, kind, and reassuring. He took time to address my health history, all my concerns, and never did I feel rushed or ridiculous for being afraid. His entire staff including my nurses both named Sarah and the nurse anesthetist Kasha were all so warm, caring, and professional. I was in excellent hands from the moment I walked in the door until I walked out. The procedure went very well and I had no complications or issues whatsoever with the prep, the screening, or the recovery. I am very thankful to Dr. Johnson and his team and would not hesitate to recommend him to all my family and friends.
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