A colonoscopy is a screening test for colorectal cancer – and it can save your life. Colonoscopies help us detect and often remove pre-cancerous growths (polyps) meaning we can get rid of it before it turns into a cancer. And if your colonoscopy shows signs of cancer, you can receive additional testing, treatments and support all in one program.
Everyone should be screened for colorectal cancer beginning at age 45, unless you have a family history of the disease or certain other risk factors, and then earlier screening may be needed. You and your primary care clinician will decide when you should have colorectal cancer screening. Colonoscopies are available at locations throughout the region, making it easier to fit testing into your busy schedule. Additionally, many of our locations offer Saturday scheduling for your convenience.
What to expect: Colon cancer screening
The colon is a long hollow tube responsible for the final stages of digestion. Your colon absorbs water from digested food and helps produce solid waste (stool), which you eliminate during a bowel movement.
The day before your procedure, you’ll drink a liquid solution that works as a laxative to clean and empty your bowel before having a colonoscopy. Learn more about prepping for a colonoscopy.
During a colonoscopy, we examine the lining of your colon and rectum using an endoscope, which is a thin flexible tube with a tiny light and camera attached. We access the colon by passing these instruments through the anus. Before we begin, we give you medication to help you sleep through the procedure. A colonoscopy is an outpatient test, meaning you can go home shortly after it’s over. However, because sedatives generally cause drowsiness and impaired motor function for a few hours after the procedure, you’ll need to have a friend or family member drive you home.
Expert care through Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute
If there are abnormal findings, we help you get answers and care recommendations as quickly as possible. As one of the region’s leading programs, Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute brings together a highly skilled team to support you. At our multidisciplinary cancer clinic, you see multiple cancer experts, including doctors specializing in gastrointestinal cancers like colorectal cancer, in one visit. If we find a suspicious growth, we examine it under a microscope to see if it is cancerous. As the only cancer center in the region with a gastrointestinal pathologist, we quickly deliver accurate results so you can start treatment right away.
Colonoscopy Prep
If you are getting ready for a colonoscopy, please review our preparation instructions, available in both English and Spanish.
Get instructions