The movement of the scope is controlled by dials at one end of the scope. On the other end, the scope has a camera in addition to an opening which can be used for suctioning any remaining fluid, and another opening for inserting air. By gently manipulating the scope, the physician can see the insides of the rectum, sigmoid colon, and left descending colon. The examination takes approximately 15-30 minutes. The procedure is relatively safe.
Some patients experience discomfort from the introduction of air into the colon.
This is similar to having gas cramps. Approximately 1 time in 8-10,000 procedures , a tear in the wall of the colon is made which requires surgery to correct. For additional information on colon cancer screening and management, click on The Colon and Rectum Cancer Resource Center . To see the inner surface of the colon, the patient must rid the colon of stool contents. Follow these instructions to ensure a good exam and to avoid the need for a repeat examination.