Painless Colonoscopy With Sedation in Woodbridge: What Patients Should Know
For many people, the thought of having a colonoscopy can be stressful. Concerns about discomfort, the procedure itself and the preparation can sometimes cause people to delay an examination that has been recommended by their doctor. Understanding what actually happens during a colonoscopy and how sedation is used can make the process much less intimidating.
Mackenzie Endoscopy Centre in Woodbridge performs colonoscopy using sedation and anesthesia to help patients remain comfortable during the procedure. The centre states that propofol anesthesia is administered by a qualified anesthetist working alongside an experienced endoscopist.
How Does a Colonoscopy Work?
A colonoscopy allows a physician to examine the inside of the rectum and colon using a thin, flexible instrument with a camera. The examination can be used to investigate symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits or other gastrointestinal concerns. It is also an important procedure when further investigation is required following an abnormal colorectal cancer screening result.
One of the advantages of colonoscopy is that the physician can not only examine the bowel but can also take action during the same procedure when appropriate. For example, a polyp may be removed and tissue can be sent to a laboratory for examination.
Polyps are growths that develop on the lining of the colon. Many are harmless, but some types can develop into colorectal cancer over time. Finding and removing certain polyps is therefore an important part of colorectal cancer prevention.
Is a Colonoscopy Painful?
This is one of the most common concerns patients have before their appointment. Mackenzie Endoscopy Centre uses propofol anesthesia for its colonoscopy procedures, with anesthesia administered by a qualified anesthetist. The purpose is to help patients remain comfortable during the examination.
Although people often search for a “painless colonoscopy,” it is more accurate to think of sedation as an important part of making the procedure more comfortable rather than guaranteeing that every person will experience exactly the same sensation. Your healthcare team can explain the sedation process and what you can expect based on your individual circumstances.
The effects of sedation also mean that you cannot simply drive yourself home afterwards. You will need an adult to accompany you home, and you should follow the clinic’s instructions regarding driving and other activities after the procedure.
Who Needs a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy can be recommended for several different reasons. Some people have symptoms that require investigation, while others may need a colonoscopy because of their family history or an abnormal screening test.
It is important to understand that not everybody needs a colonoscopy simply because they reach a particular age. Ontario’s colorectal cancer screening recommendations distinguish between average-risk screening and people who have symptoms or increased risk.
For average-risk adults aged 45 to 74, Ontario currently recommends a fecal immunochemical test, commonly known as FIT, every two years. A colonoscopy may then be recommended if the FIT result is abnormal. People with certain family-history risk factors may be advised to undergo colonoscopy as their screening test instead.
If your doctor has recommended a colonoscopy, the reason for the procedure and the appropriate preparation will depend on your individual circumstances.
Colonoscopy in Woodbridge
Mackenzie Endoscopy Centre provides outpatient colonoscopy services from its Woodbridge location at 3865 Major MacKenzie Dr. W., Units 109-110. The clinic provides colonoscopy alongside other endoscopic services including gastroscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy.
If you have been referred for a colonoscopy and are worried about discomfort, speak with your healthcare provider about the sedation options available and make sure you understand the preparation instructions before your appointment.
A colonoscopy may seem daunting beforehand, but understanding the process and knowing what to expect can make the experience considerably easier to approach.