The examiner often pumps air into the intestine to get a better view. It is normal for this air to escape as flatulence during the test and for a while after the test. The examiner can view the entire lining on a TV monitor. Images can be transferred to photographs and kept for comparison with future tests. The examiner can take biopsies or remove polyps.
Polyps are small outgrowths from the lining of the intestine.
They commonly occur as people age. Although they are not cancer, they have the potential to become cancer. If the examiner removes any polyps, the person may briefly have blood in the stool. A repeat colonoscopy is recommended in 3 years to look for missed or new polyps. If none are found in follow-up, repeat tests are recommended every 5 years.