Re: Colonoscopy

Posted By HFHSM.D.-ym on September 14, 1998 at 22:39:11:

In Reply to: Colonoscopy posted by Judy on September 14, 1998 at 16:00:18:






My doctor wants me to have a colonoscopy done because
I am anemic (my hemaglobin is 9.5).  I am 49 years old and
have no symptoms of abnormal bleeding, etc.  My father has
a history of polyps in his colon but only after age 65.  My doctor
feels that we should "go looking" and says she "doesn't want to
miss a colon cancer as one could be bleeding intermittently".
I am VERY VERY concerned
about the procedure and the "discomfort" as it is referred to.
As soon as I found this site I noticed the first message was
from a woman who was surprised at the discomfort and cramping.
What will they do if I can't take the "pain"?
Dear Judy,
I must first state that I agree with your doctor's reasoning for performing a colonoscopy. Secondly, you should be aware that colonoscopy is a fairly safe procedure. Complications occur in 1-2 cases every 2000-3000 procedures. If a polyp is removed during the procedure, bleeding or perforation occur in approximately 1.8 percent of patients. The "anesthesia" used for colonoscopy is called conscious sedation. This means that you will not be totally unconscious, but will be in a twilight zone. Most patients do not remember the procedure. In fact, many patients will wake up in the recovery room after the procedure asking the recovery room nurse: When are we going to start the procedure? Nevertheless, it is hard to predict what experience you will have during the procedure. Every patient's colon is unique in its anatomic configuration, presence of scar tissue (due to previous surgery) and tolerance to instrumentation. Your gastroenterologist will probably try to give you as much medication as possible. However, he or she will also need to monitor your respirations and vital signs. If your blood pressure or oxygen saturation drop during the procedure your doctor may need to limit the amount of sedation given. Finally, if adequate sedation cannot be achieved to make the procedure safe and comfortable for you, your doctor will probably stop the procedure rather than risk a complication. I hope you find this information helpful.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians' Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.
HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: colonoscopy, conscious sedation, complications