Colonoscopy: FAQs Answered

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer and one of the most preventable. For that reason, Fort HealthCare is making a special effort during March’s Colon Cancer Awareness Month to convince age-appropriate individuals to receive a screening colonoscopy.

Any eligible patient who schedules and comes in for a colonoscopy before March 31, 2010 will receive a $50 fuel card. Eligible patients who make an appointment before March 31, but receive the procedure between April 1 and May 31 will receive a $10 fuel card. Eligible patients are 1) those over age 50 who are otherwise healthy; or 2) those with a family history of colon problems and who have not had a colonoscopy in the past.

When you call to schedule your first colonoscopy before March 31, you’ll be entered to win a three-night Florida Dream Vacation at Captiva Island’s legendary ‘Tween Waters Inn Island Resort. To be entered to win the Florida Dream Vacation, you must bring to your procedure appointment the postcard you received via mail or printed “Lifetime of Good Health Promotion PDF” from our website at www.FortHealthCare.com/Colonoscopy.

The possibility of winning free fuel or even a trip to Florida may still not be enough to convince someone to have a colonoscopy. Many people are hesitant to schedule a screening because they have many questions about the procedure, especially concerning potential risks and benefits. Fort HealthCare general surgeon Marc Erickson, MD believes most people are nervous before their first scope because they don’t know what to expect. “Almost always, people find that a colonoscopy is much easier than they imagined and well worth the hassle if it keeps them from getting colon cancer.”

Erickson provided answers to some common questions, hoping to alleviate some of the fear associated with this procedure.

What is a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a procedure which enables a physician to directly examine the entire colon using images shown on a monitor. This procedure is effective in the diagnosis and/or evaluation of various GI disorders such as colon polyps, colon cancer, diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease, bleeding, change in bowel habits, abdominal pain, obstruction and abnormal x-rays or CT scans. It can also be used as an intervention in the removal of polyps or control of bleeding.

Have colonoscopies proven to be effective in the prevention of colon cancer?
Yes. A colonoscopy can prevent colon cancer by detecting and removing polyps, and detecting early cancers. Certain polyps will develop into cancer in as little as five years, which is why regular screening is so important. Recent data show that both the number of new cases of colon cancer and deaths from the disease are decreased when colonoscopy is performed according to established guidelines.

What are the guidelines?
“Screening colonoscopies are recommended for everyone, beginning at the age of 50. If no polyps are found, repeat exams are recommended every 10 years. If polyps are found the repeat interval is every three to five years depending on the size, number and microscopic appearance of the polyps removed,” says Fort HealthCare general surgeon Jonathon McLaughlin, MD. He then adds, “If an immediate family member has had colon cancer, the age of a first colonoscopy should be at an age 10 years younger than the age at which the family member was diagnosed with cancer. Repeat exams in this situation are never more than five years apart, even when no polyps are found.”

What do I need to do to prepare for the screening?
Preparation for a colonoscopy is an important obstacle in the eyes of many patients, but it need not be. There are a variety of preparation methods for colonoscopy ranging from liquids of varying quantity, enemas or pills which help to cleanse the colon. A clean colon is essential to allow for a careful examination for polyps or other abnormalities. Your doctor can discuss and prescribe the most appropriate preparation method for you, taking into account various factors such as your age, personal preferences, kidney function and physical stamina.

Will it be painful?
Colonoscopy is usually not painful and many patients do not remember the procedure. Almost all colonoscopies can be performed using a form of sedation in which you are very drowsy, but comfortable and still breathing on your own.

Learn more about a Fort HealthCare colonoscopy.

To book an appointment with general surgeons McLaughlin or Erickson, Chris Nervi or Bill Kontny, call Fort HealthCare Surgical Associates at (920) 563-7900. For an appointment with James Wishau, MD call the Lake Mills Clinic at (920) 648-7683. Appointments available before March 31 are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. If you are not ready to make an appointment at this time, you are welcome to schedule a colonoscopy at anytime throughout the year.

Fort HealthCare participates in most insurance plans. Many insurances offer coverage for most common, age specific screening tests, including colonoscopies. Please consult with your insurance provider if you have questions about coverage. Visit FortHealthCare.com/Insurance for more information.