Colonoscopy
Gold standard screening for colon cancer. Recommended for adults 50+ even without symptoms. Takes less than 30 minutes with sedation.
Is It Time to Schedule a Colonoscopy?
Most people dread colonoscopies, but these procedures can save your life! Not only are they brief and painless, but they are considered one of the most effective cancer prevention methods out there. Still, roughly 40 percent of Americans over 50 avoid scheduling an exam.
Stop putting off your procedure and contact the efficient medical team at New York Gastroenterology & Endoscopy. Our team has nearly a decade of experience and performs all colonoscopies in the comfort of our own office.
What Is a Colonoscopy Procedure?
A colonoscopy is a test that can locate ulcers, colon polyps, tumors, or areas of inflammation in the inner lining of your large intestine. During a colonoscopy, a doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope into the colon. The colonoscope has a small video camera attached to it so the doctor can take pictures or video of the large intestine and the lower part of the small intestine. Tissue samples are also taken at this time to check for abnormal growths. The entire procedure takes anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours.
The Benefits of a Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a routine procedure for people over 50 that screens for colorectal cancer and other colon health problems. Colonoscopy benefits include finding out the cause of:
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
Before a colonoscopy procedure, a doctor from New York Gastroenterology & Endoscopy may direct you to prep your bowels by drinking only a clear liquid diet for 24-72 hours.
- Tell your doctor about any medications that you are taking
- Arrange for someone to take you home after the test because you may be given a sedative
- The night before, the doctor will recommend a laxative solution or tablet to thoroughly clean out your colon
- Do not eat any solid foods after the colon prep
- Stop drinking liquids 6 to 8 hours before the colonoscopy procedure
Risks of a Colonoscopy
Since a colonoscopy is a routine procedure, there are very few side effects. You may have some gas and bloating afterwards, but that should dissipate in a day or two. A little blood in your stool is also normal, although talk to your doctor if you continue to pass blood or blood clots, have abdominal pain, or have a fever of over 100°F.
Rare Complications
- Bleeding at the biopsy site
- A bad reaction from the sedative
- A tear in the rectal wall
Whether you need to schedule a colonoscopy as part of an annual exam or you are experiencing abdominal pain/cramping and just want to know what’s going on, you can count on the compassionate team at New York Gastroenterology & Endoscopy to provide the absolute best services. Our Queens gastroenterologist accepts all insurances and our office is open Sundays. Same-day appointments are also available.
Request an Appointment
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Visit Our Elmhurst Office
Conveniently located in Elmhurst, Queens – easily accessible by multiple subway lines and with available parking.
New York Gastroenterology & Endoscopy
79-11 41st Avenue
Elmhurst, Queens, NY 11373
- Corner of 80th Street
- Front of Elmhurst Hospital
- One Block from Roosevelt Avenue
Office Hours
- Monday - Friday
- 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
- Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Sunday
-
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
By appointment only
Getting Here
- Subway: E, F, M, R & 7 Trains
- Free street parking available