Colonoscopy Screening

Detection of Early Cancers in the Large Intestines

A Colonoscopy procedure at Gastroenterology Associates of Colorado Springs (GACS) is performed in a professional and comfortable environment a the Pikes Peak Endoscopy Center. The procedure is used to diagnose the causes of unexplained changes in bowel habits. It is also used to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum. The physician look inside your entire large intestine. A colonoscopy enables the physician to see inflamed tissue, abnormal growths, ulcers, bleeding and muscle spasms.

How to Prepare for a Colonoscopy

The day before your procedure you will have to avoid solid food and only drink clear liquids. Throughout the day you will be asked to continue your prep with oral Dulcolax tablets and a clear preparation drink. With our mixture of Miralax and Gatorade, our patients find our prep better tasting and easier to take. Our in-office Prep Kit is always available to purchase along with easy to follow instructions, so you are prepared for your procedure. Many patients have asked about performing an enema before the procedure instead of taking our prep drink. Unfortunately, enemas don’t allow for complete visibility with the colonoscope and therefore are not recommended. Our staff will make sure you are comfortable with the preparation steps for your colonoscopy and will help plan a schedule that is easy for you to follow.

Colonoscopy Procedure

A colonoscopy usually takes up to 30 minutes to complete but may be prolonged if abnormal growths are found. Your vital signs will be monitored, and you may be given a mild sedative to relax you and reduce pain. If something abnormal is found, the doctor can use the colonoscope to collect a sample of the tissue for biopsy. Biopsies are taken for many reasons, and if one is performed, your physician will cover all the details in the recovery room. Your recovery will begin in a private room where you will be provided with warm blankets and socks as well as gourmet drinks from our Bottoms Up Cafe.

Reasons for a Colonoscopy Procedure

Colonoscopies are recommended as an option for people who are at increased risk of developing cancer of the colon or rectum, known as colorectal cancer or CRC. This type of cancer is much easier to treat when detected early. Risk factors that may contribute to the development of colorectal cancer include:

• Personal or family history of colorectal polyps
• Age, especially if the patient is 50 or older
• Personal or family history of  IBD
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Poor diet
• Family history of colon or rectal cancer
• Heavy alcohol use
• Lack of exercise or physical activity