Colon examinations Through regular colorectal checks, polyps can be removed before they cause symptoms or turn into cancer. Examinations of the colon by colonoscopy are the best way to detect colon polyps or colon cancer. A colonoscope is a thin, flexible tube that is passed into the colon. It has a light on the end and allows the doctor examine the lining of all 6 feet of the colon. In addition, instruments can be passed through the scope to sample or remove polyps.
Patients drink a special solution to cleanse the colon the night before the test.
The doctor usually gives a sedative through the vein just before inserting the scope. The exam of the entire 6 feet of the colon takes about 20 minutes and is usually quite comfortable. Patients cannot drive for about eight hours after the procedure because of the effects of the sedative. Someone must drive the patient home, but light duties can be resumed the rest of the day. This examination should be done every one to three years.