Division of Gastroenterology
Our Division of Gastroenterology offers exceptional patient care, research programs, and education and training opportunities.
Colonoscopy
The main test for colon cancer screening
Contact Us
Specialized Care for Colon Cancer
More than 50,000 people in the U.S. die of colorectal cancer each year. But with colonoscopy, doctors can detect cancers of the colon and rectum early. Sometimes, they can even prevent the disease from developing.
The Colon Cancer Screening Center at Lahey Clinic makes getting your colonoscopy as easy and comfortable as possible. We use the latest tools and take the time to make sure you understand each step in the colonoscopy procedure.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to view the inside of your colon (large intestine) and rectum after a bowel cleansing process. It’s the most common screening and diagnostic procedure for colorectal cancer. We also use colonoscopy to detect other conditions that affect your colon, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Our other diagnostic tools for colorectal cancer include CT scans, MRI, ultrasound and endoscopy techniques.
Standard Colonoscopy
A doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on its tip into your anus. They then pass the tube through your colon. The camera provides real-time images of your colon on a monitor. Doctors watch carefully as they advance the tube to look for anything abnormal. You’re sedated or under general anesthesia during the procedure to keep you comfortable.
Most colorectal cancers begin as polyps, or abnormal growths. If doctors find a colon polyp during your colonoscopy, they can remove it during the same procedure. This may prevent cancer from developing. If the polyp is cancerous, starting treatment right away may lead to the most successful outcome.
The colonoscopy exam itself usually takes an hour or less. But you should expect to spend roughly two to three hours in the colonoscopy center from your arrival through recovery.
More About Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy Preparation
Bowel prep is essential for a successful colonoscopy. This includes a special diet in the days before your exam, fasting and taking medicine that helps clean out your colon.
Use the instructions for our most common bowel prep before your procedure and get answers to frequently asked questions about preparing for your colonoscopy.
Stool Tests: Alternatives to Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is the most effective colon cancer screening test. But some people prefer an alternative. Stool tests look for blood in a stool sample. Bleeding may be a sign of colorectal cancer. With most stool tests, you collect your sample at home, using a special kit. Then, you send it to a lab for analysis. Types of stool tests include:
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
- Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
- Stool DNA
If your test is positive, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to investigate further.
Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations
The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk for colorectal cancer begin screening at age 45.
If you have risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need your first screening before 45. Your primary care provider can talk with you about the age to get a colonoscopy. Results of your screening test help determine recommendations for future screening. Our team will design a schedule for your specific needs and goals.
We understand that you may feel anxious about having a colonoscopy. But it may be helpful to know most colonoscopy procedures do not lead to a cancer diagnosis. If tests confirm you have the disease, you can expect compassionate, comprehensive colorectal cancer care at Lahey. The expertise of our cancer team puts you in good hands.
