The Colonoscopy Prep Checklist: Your Top Questions Answered

Do I need a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years for anyone aged 50 and older. However, some individuals may be at a higher risk for colon cancer and will require a colonoscopy screening earlier or more often. You are at a higher risk for colon cancer if you:

• Have a personal or family history of certain cancers, including colon cancer
• Have a personal or family history of colon polyps, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn’s disease
• Are of African-American or Ashkenazi Jewish heritage
• Have Type-2 diabetes
• Use tobacco products
• Are overweight or obese
• Have a heavy alcohol intake
• Have a diet high in red and/or processed meats

My doctor determined that I need a colonoscopy. What’s next?

Once your provider has determined that there is a need for a colonoscopy, you’ll need to contact the Center for Colonoscopy Excellence (CCE) to schedule an appointment. After your appointment is scheduled, the CCE team will help you prepare for your colonoscopy. Many patients feel overwhelmed by colonoscopy prep, but the professionals at CCE use a streamlined process that keeps preparation as simple and as convenient as possible.

What is the preparation process?

CCE’s uses a carefully-chosen, low-volume prep solution that is consumed by the patient in split doses. You drink half of the solution the day before the colonoscopy and the other half several hours before the procedure.

Only clear liquids are allowed the day before the procedure. You won’t be able to consume solid foods until after the colonoscopy is complete.

What is it like after a colonoscopy?

The staff at CCE uses the sedative Propofol during a colonoscopy, so recovery time is usually faster than with a conventional sedative. Patients often report that they do not come out of surgery feeling groggy and are able to easily have a conversation with their physician about 5 to 10 minutes after waking from the procedure. Although you should not drive within 12 hours of the procedure or go to work that day, you are able to resume a normal diet as long as your first meal post-colonoscopy isn’t too heavy.