A complete, comfortable, and evidence‑based colon cancer screening and diagnostic exam.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a 20–40 minute outpatient procedure that uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the entire colon and rectum. We can find and remove precancerous polyps in the same visit, preventing colorectal cancer.
Who should get screened?
- Age 45–75: Routine screening if you’re at average risk.
- Earlier or more often if you have: a family history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, certain hereditary syndromes, or prior polyps.
- Over 75: Screening is individualized—talk with your clinician.
If you have bleeding, new anemia, bowel habit changes, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain, a diagnostic colonoscopy may be recommended regardless of age.
Why this matters
- Colorectal cancer is highly preventable when precancerous polyps are removed.
- Colonoscopy is the only test that both detects and removes polyps during the same procedure.
Day‑of checklist
- ❑ Government ID & insurance card
- ❑ List of medications & allergies
- ❑ A responsible adult to drive you home
- ❑ Wear comfortable clothing; leave valuables at home
What to expect on procedure day
- Check‑in & nursing assessment (15–30 min)
- Sedation: You’ll be comfortably asleep or deeply relaxed.
- The exam: 20–40 minutes. Polyps are removed painlessly.
- Recovery: 30–45 minutes. You’ll receive a written summary and discharge instructions.
Most patients remember little or nothing and return to normal activities the next day.
Results & follow‑up
- Your doctor will explain initial findings before you leave.
- If polyps/biopsies are sent to pathology, results are usually available in 7–14 days via phone or portal.
- Next screening interval is based on your results (typically 7–10 years after a normal, high‑quality exam; sooner if polyps are found).
Safety & risks
Colonoscopy is very safe. Potential risks include bleeding (especially after polyp removal), perforation, reactions to sedation, dehydration/electrolyte changes from prep, and missed lesions. Serious complications are rare; we discuss your individual risks and obtain informed consent on the day of the procedure.
Medications & special situations
- Blood thinners: Do not stop on your own. We’ll coordinate with your prescriber.
- Diabetes/GLP‑1 meds: We’ll provide a safe dosing plan for prep day and the morning of your procedure.
- Sleep apnea, heart or lung conditions: Bring your CPAP details and medication list; anesthesia is tailored to you.
- Pregnancy: Please tell us—screening is usually deferred unless urgently needed.
After you go home
- Expect gas or mild cramping—walking helps.
- A small amount of blood on the first bowel movement can be normal after polyp removal.
- Call us immediately for severe pain, persistent vomiting, fever >101°F, heavy bleeding, or black/tarry stools.
CONTACT:
Valley Gastroenterology
3190 E Meridian Park Loop, Suite 206
Wasilla, Alaska 99654
Phone: (907) 373-2544
Fax: (844) 689-4240
Web: ValleyGastroAK.com
Colonoscopy at Valley Gastroenterology