Top Colonoscopy Specialist in East Setauket, NY

A colonoscopy serves as a diagnostic procedure aimed at screening for colon cancer or colon polyps which are abnormal growths on the colon’s inner lining that can potentially evolve into cancer.

Screening involves the examination of diseases in individuals who exhibit no symptoms, often enabling the detection of diseases at an early and more treatable stage.

During a colonoscopy, a medical examination is conducted to assess the condition of the large bowel. This procedure employs a specialized tool known as a colonoscope, which comprises a lengthy, flexible plastic tube equipped with a small digital camera and an illumination source at one end.

A skilled gastroenterologist skillfully maneuvers this instrument in various directions to gain a comprehensive view of the interior of the colon.

Colonoscopies are employed as a diagnostic tool to proactively search for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in individuals who do not exhibit any symptoms of the disease.

The likelihood of developing colon cancer escalates as one advances in age, with a notably increased risk starting in their mid-40s and beyond. Nevertheless, it’s important to acknowledge that even younger adults can be diagnosed with colon cancer.

This risk intensifies further for individuals with a history of large polyps, multiple polyps, and other conditions. Following the identification of polyps and the subsequent assessment of results, a gastroenterologist will tailor a screening schedule to address an individual’s specific risk profile.

Those with a family history of polyps or colon cancer should discuss with their healthcare providers to determine when to initiate screening. In some cases, they may need to commence colon cancer screening at an earlier age than others due to their elevated risk.

Colonoscopies are typically conducted with the patient either under sedation or general anesthesia. In both of these scenarios, individuals typically experience no pain during the procedure. This remains true even for those who opt to remain awake during the colonoscopy.

Once the sedation takes effect, the medical provider inserts a slender, flexible tube into the rectum. This tube is equipped with a tiny light and camera, allowing the healthcare professional to visualize and inspect the colon for any irregularities, such as polyps or ulcers. Some individuals may encounter mild abdominal cramping, akin to gas pains, following a colonoscopy. These discomforts, if experienced, usually subside within approximately a day after the procedure.

Prior to a colonoscopy, the colon must be completely emptied as it typically contains stool. To achieve this, a dietary regimen of exclusively clear liquids is prescribed 24 hours prior to the procedure, patients will stop all liquid consumption at least two to four hours before the scheduled colonoscopy as directed by their physician.

During the colonoscopy, a gastroenterologist inserts a lengthy, slender, and flexible tube known as a colonoscope into the patient’s rectum. This specialized instrument is equipped with a small video camera and an illumination source at its tip.

The camera transmits a live video feed to a monitor, allowing the doctor to thoroughly examine the patient’s large intestine. If any polyps are identified within the intestine, the doctor may remove them, and in some cases, extract small pieces of other abnormal tissue for further examination. Typically, this entire process lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

A colonoscopy is the most highly efficient method for colon cancer screening in modern healthcare. It is a straightforward test used to screen for colon cancer that can be life-saving. Additionally, this procedure may be employed to investigate the underlying causes of various bowel-related issues, such as bleeding, alterations in bowel habits, or other related concerns. Those looking for a board-certified gastroenterologist in East Setauket NY, to perform a colonoscopy need look no further than Digestive Disease Care (DDC).

Top colonoscopy specialists are available at Digestive Disease Care (DDC). We have convenient locations to serve you in East Setauket NY, Babylon NY, Lake Success NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Melville NY, New Hyde Park NY, Mineola NY, Massapequa NY, and BEYOND.