If detected early, colon cancer is among the most treatable cancers.
The best way to diagnose colon cancer is through a simple test called a
colonoscopy.
This saves patients and family members the time and expense of traveling out of town for testing.
A colonoscopy is performed using a thin tube with a video camera on
the end to allow a doctor to examine the inner lining of the large
intestine for ulcers, polyps, tumors, and areas of inflammation or
bleeding. If the doctor finds something suspicious, tissue samples can
be taken for biopsy and abnormal growths removed. The patient is under
sedation for the test.
A colonoscopy is done under sedation and is painless. However, people
sometimes avoid colonoscopies because of the preparation the day before
the test. “Prep” is done to clean out the colon, which enables a
thorough exam. While the prep is inconvenient, it is necessary. Based on
physician instructions, the patient drinks a liquid or takes a
medication. Patients should stay at home during prep to be close to a
bathroom.
Colonoscopies are performed at Jake & Mildred Fulmer Surgical
Center at Newberry Health, located on the first floor off the Main
Lobby. The test—from check-in to recovery time—takes about three hours.
Patients get preliminary results the same day. Because patients are
sedated, the hospital requires that someone drive the patient home after
their procedure.
Colonoscopies are recommended for adults age 50 or older at normal risk. Talk to your doctor to see what is best for you. If
your doctor recommends a colonoscopy, his staff will schedule your
procedure with the hospital. Two days before the procedure, you should
call the hospital to find out what time to come. We will also take your
medical history over the phone and provide complete instructions on how
to prepare for your colonoscopy.
These physicians perform colonoscopies at Newberry Health: Dr. William Cantey, Dr. William "Chip" Dixon
