Colonoscopy Specialist
GI Health
Gastroenterologists located in Lower Manhattan/Chinatown, New York, NY & Brooklyn, NY
Colonoscopy procedures are important tools in the diagnosis of colon cancer, Crohn’s disease and other issues affecting the large intestine. Dr. Anthony Ng and his team of highly skilled gastroenterologists are experts in colonoscopy procedures using safe, state-of-the-art technology for the most accurate results in patients at GI Health, located in Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, NY.
Colonoscopy Q & A
What is a colonoscopy?
Also called a lower endoscopy, a colonoscopy is a visual examination of the colon or large intestine using a flexible scope called a colonoscope. The scope features a lighted camera designed to take real-time images or video of the interior of the colon, sending those images to a video monitor where they can be viewed by the doctor performing the procedure.
Why is a colonoscopy performed?
Colonoscopies are performed to diagnose symptoms like chronic pain and bloating, chronic diarrhea or constipation, or other symptoms affecting the lower bowel. The procedure is also used routinely to screen for colorectal cancer. In addition to screening for colon cancer, colonoscopies are used to diagnose or treat:
- ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory condition of the colon
- other forms of colitis (inflammation) caused by infection (bacteria) or ischemia (low blood flow)
- diverticulosis, a condition that causes tiny pockets to form inside the colon lining and can lead to bleeding and infection as well as causing painful symptoms
- changes in bowel habits, including chronic diarrhea or constipation
- to follow up another diagnostic procedure like a barium x-ray that yielded abnormal results
- to determine the cause of anemia
- to determine the cause of blood in the stool including hemorrhoid disease
What happens during a colonoscopy?
Prior to having a colonoscopy, the bowel must be completely emptied and clean. The day before the procedure, patients will need to drink a special solution designed to flush out the colon. During this time, the patient will need to be near a toilet to empty the bowels as the solution takes effect. Patients will also need to drink only clear fluids and avoid food for at least part of the day prior to the exam, and patients who take medications may need to alter their dosing schedules based on the doctor’s recommendations. The procedure itself is performed while the patient is sedated (in a deep sleep), with medication delivered through an intravenous catheter. Once sedation is administered, the camera is inserted into the anus and slowly advanced through the colon. An inert gas is usually used to gently expand the colon to make it easier to view. If polyps or areas of abnormal tissue are seen, special instruments will be used to remove or sample them. Procedures take about 20 to 30 minutes and patients can return home the same day.
Insurances and Payment
Please call to inquire about our pricing if you do not have medical insurance. Payment Policy: Financial obligations are defined by an agreement between you and your insurance company. We are bound by law to collect them. If you have a Health Savings Account/Flexible Spending Account and we can not verify, we ask you to provide credit/debit card information or make an estimated payment. We take cash, credit card, and debit card. Thank you.