Colonoscopy in Thibodaux, LA
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an endoscopic exam during which a long, slim, adjustable tube or “scope” is positioned through the anus and run through the whole colon (large intestine). The pipe has a light and recording device on the tip of it, which allows the GI specialist to investigate the interior of the colon. A colonoscopy could be done to determine the reason for intestinal symptoms, such as loose stool, bloody stool, stomach pain, or strange X-ray results.
A colonoscopy might also be performed on an asymptomatic patient at age 45 or younger depending on the patient’s history to examine for colon and rectal cancer and tumors. As principal specialists in intestinal health, the board-certified gastroenterologists at Digestive Health Center routinely do colonoscopy procedures. Please reach out to your nearest location for more information on colonoscopies in Thibodaux, LA.
What is the benefit of having a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy screenings are the most reliable safeguard against colon cancer development, making it extremely important to have a colonoscopy as suggested by your provider. Routine colonoscopies offer many advantages for your GI wellness and overall health. Some of the benefits of colonoscopy exams include the following:
- May be life-saving
- Detects early signals of colon and rectal cancer
- Uncovers and removes abnormal polyps
- Serves as the prevailing screening option for colon and/or rectal cancer
- Diagnoses diverticulosis, IBD, and additional GI concerns
Thanks to advancing technology, colonoscopy screenings are executed quicker, with less discomfort and greater precision than in the past.
What should I expect during a colonoscopy?
You will receive directions from your provider at Digestive Health Center concerning the essential bowel preparation to prepare you for your exam. The majority of patients are on a diet of only clear liquids for 24 hours before the procedure. There are numerous distinct choices for laxatives to fully clear out the colon. It is quite crucial to observe the orders given to you by our team to ensure the test runs properly. There might also be further instructions concerning your medications. In the majority of instances, your drugs will be maintained as normal. However, in particular circumstances, particularly in patients on blood thinners (i.e., warfarin, Plavix®, Coumadin®, aspirin, anti-inflammatories) and in diabetics, particular orders will be specified. Clients will be told not to take anything by mouth following midnight excluding prescriptions.
You will likely be directed to arrive at the endoscopy center 1 – 1.5 hours before your procedure. This will give you time to fill out any necessary documents and get ready for the procedure. You will be instructed to change into a hospital gown. An intravenous (IV) catheter will be started in your arm so that medication can be given. You will be hooked up to our technology system, which will permit your GI specialist and the rest of our team to check your heart rate, blood pressure, electrocardiogram, respiratory rate, and oxygen concentration throughout and after the colonoscopy.
Once in the procedure room, you will be asked to position yourself on your left side on the bed. The IV drug will be started; it will be administered in small amounts to help ensure your safety and provide just the amount you need. Once an adequate level of relaxation is achieved, your provider will perform a rectal examination. The colonoscope will be gently inserted through the anus. The scope will be attentively advanced throughout the colon to where the small intestine and colon join. A small level of air is pumped using the scope into the colon to provide a better view of the interior of the colon. Any liquid left over in the colon after the preparation can be washed and absorbed through the scope.
Based on the outcome of the procedure, various things may be done at the moment of the test, like biopsies, the removal of growths, and the repression of bleeding. At the end of the colonoscopy, as much of the oxygen and leftover liquid as feasible is suctioned out of the colon with the scope. Based on the results, the test takes approximately 15 – 30 minutes.
After the exam is complete, you will be ushered to the aftercare room to be monitored while the IV drug begins to disappear. The measure of medication utilized during the exam and your particular response to the drug will dictate how rapidly you will awaken, though the majority of patients are lucid enough for discharge within 45 – 60 minutes.
You will not be advised to drive for the remainder of the day, so you will need to have a ride back to your house. You also should not work, sign essential documents, or perform demanding activities for the rest of the afternoon. The majority of patients are able to eat and drink as usual following their discharge from the endoscopy facility; although, personalized orders regarding exercise, eating, and medications will be given before discharge.
When can I expect my results?
After your colonoscopy at our Thibodaux, LA gastroenterology center, your GI specialist will review the findings of the procedure with you. Many patients will not recall this conversation with great certainty due to the consequences of the sedation. It is recommended, if practical, to take someone with you to whom the conclusions can also be discussed. We will also send you home with a written record to review later as needed. You will be informed of any biopsy results generally within seven days.
What are the other options for a colonoscopy?
To an extent, the alternatives to the procedure will depend on the basis of need for the colonoscopy in the first place. In most instances, a colonoscopy is the superior method to diagnose and address deformities in the colon. Though, there are various X-rays that can diagnose the colon, including a barium enema or virtual CT scan, these are solely diagnostic exams. Handling abnormalities will necessitate a colonoscopy or surgery.
What are the risks of a colonoscopy?
Commonly, a colonoscopy is an extremely dependable exam. Overall, complications arise in less than 1% of patients. Most complications are not grave, although they could involve hospitalization and an operation. Before the exam, an acceptance form will be reviewed with you by the support staff. If any inquiries or concerns appear, these can be reviewed with your physician prior to the test.
Prescription responses connected with the IV medication can arise. These can include, but are not limited to, allergic reactions, trouble breathing, impacts on the heart and blood pressure, and discomfort of the vein given the IV drug.
Bleeding can happen with biopsies and the extraction of tumors. Once again, substantial bleeding, which may require a blood transfusion or hospitalization, is very uncommon. However, bleeding can happen at the time of the test or up to two weeks after the exam if a polyp is extracted.
Perforation or puncture of the bowel can occur, although unlikely. This might be recognized at the time of the test, or it could not be detected until later in the evening. In most cases, a penetration will need surgery and a hospital stay. This is an unusual difficulty, even when growths are extracted.
It is extremely important that you call our office right away if symptoms emerge following the test, like worsening abdominal discomfort, bleeding, or elevated temperature.
Like any other test, a colonoscopy is not infallible. There is a small, recognized danger that deformities, including tumors and cancers, can be overlooked during the exam. It is crucial to maintain appointments with your GI specialist at Digestive Health Center as advised and inform them of any recent or constant symptoms.
Colonoscopy FAQs
When is it suggested to get your colonoscopy screening?
We suggest individuals who are at standard risk for colon cancer start having a colonoscopy screening at age 45. If your chances of colon cancer are higher or if you are presenting indications of colon cancer, your GI doctor might suggest a colon cancer screening even before that age.
How often is it recommended you get colon cancer screenings?
Gastroenterologists suggest undergoing a colonoscopy exam every ten years for individuals who have general risk, who are in favorable health, and who have colonoscopy results that are not concerning. After your screening, your GI doctor will discuss with you how many years apart you should request colonoscopy screenings from here on out.
Is a colonoscopy a painful process?
Sedation will be given to you before your colonoscopy exam to help ensure your comfort and relaxation during the exam. Depending on the type of sedation provided, a number of individuals experience an intensely calm state and become drowsy, and many experience no memory of their procedure. Feel free to discuss what you may expect during the procedure with your colonoscopy doctor during your consultation.
What’s the average recovery time for a colonoscopy exam?
Generally, patients need around a full day to recuperate after a colonoscopy exam, and many patients can resume their daily routine the next day. If colon or rectal polyps are found and removed, the recovery time will likely last longer. It is common to experience a little bit of abdominal discomfort following a colonoscopy exam, like cramping and/or bloating. Our Digestive Health Center providers will give you more information on what you can expect while you recover.
The gold standard for colorectal cancer screening
A colonoscopy is thought of as the “gold standard” of all screening methods for colorectal cancer. Unlike other screening systems, a colonoscopy enables the study of the whole colon. Plus, it also allows for the exposure of growths and their withdrawal within as little as one procedure. For many different screening methods, the capacity to withdraw growths is not available, and if the procedure returns affirmative for growths, you will potentially need a colonoscopy. If you would like to know more about how to get a colonoscopy in Thibodaux, LA, contact your nearest Digestive Health Center location to request a consultation.
Reviews
I have been a patient of Dr. Charles Monier for many years. I began seeing him when I lost 17 pounds in a week back when I was welding. I was a heavy black pepper eater. I ate black pepper on white beans,tomatoes, cucumbers, etc. Dr. Monier did my first colonoscopy. Told me I had colitis and treated me with medication. I have had colon screening over the years since. A few years back, he found a huge polip in my colon during a colonoscopy. He is an excellent doctor who I trust 100%. He doesn't have to tell me anymore to stay away from black pepper. His staff is friendly. Ms Gina is super friendly and nice. Over time,I have called for medication refills or different matters. She has always returned my calls promptly. She is surely a role model for the new workers to look up to. Katie and Dr. Stephen Duplechain are super too. They are super friendly and treat you with concern. Buy the way, I'm 58 years old and my mom raised me to always tell the truth. That is what I have just done.
My Colonoscopy went very well. The nurses explained everything very well and were a pleasure to talk to. The facility was very spacious and clean. Awesome experience!
Over time this was my third colonoscopy with Dr Monier. From office visit to procedure, Dr Monier and staff was fantastic!! Very professional, asked if I had any questions, explained and provided information prior to procedure. Office followed up next day making sure I was doing ok. Definitely would recommend Dr. Monier with Thibodaux Digestive Health!!!
Most of us know we all dredge when it’s time for our colonoscopy! But I can assure the staff (front desk, nurses, Anesthesiologist and Dr Monier) listen to your concerns and make you feel so comfortable prior and after the procedure. Dr Monier greets you with his smile and professionalism before and afterwards. Would definitely recommend him. Five stars to Thibodaux Digestive Health Center !!!!!
Answered all my questions, made me feel comfortable about my procedure for colonoscopy. Very nice talking with me.
9
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating