Shauna Lorenzo-Rivero, MD, University Surgical AssociatesQ: Is a colonoscopy really needed?
A: Colonoscopy is a safe, effective means to visually examine the full lining of the colon and rectum, using a flexible, tubular instrument. It is used to diagnose colon and rectum problems and remove colon polyps. Most colonoscopies are done on an outpatient basis with minimal inconvenience and discomfort.
Your physician may recommend a colonoscopy if you have changes in bowel habit or bleeding. All adults should have their first colonoscopy by age 50 unless they are at high risk. High risks means having colorectal cancer or polyps in your family. Then you should begin your screening colonoscopy 10 years earlier than the youngest person diagnosed with this problem or age 40, whichever comes first. After that, screening is recommended every 10 years for most adults and every five years if you have risk factors.
Colonoscopies can now detect and remove most polyps without abdominal surgery. Colonoscopy is more accurate than an X-ray exam of the colon to detect polyps or early cancer. Frequently, polyps can be removed at the same time, a major step toward the prevention of colon cancer.
– Shauna Lorenzo-Rivero, MD, University Surgical Associates; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society