A colonoscopy is a critical screening and diagnostic tool used to evaluate the health of the colon and rectum. It helps detect conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and other gastrointestinal issues. The team of doctors at Piedmont Colorectal Associates have found that educating you about what different results may mean can help ease your anxiety about the procedure and prepare you for potential outcomes.

What to Expect from Colonoscopy Results

A colonoscopy allows your doctor to visually examine the inside of your colon and rectum with a camera on the end of a flexible tube. If the specialist finds anything unusual during the procedure, he or she can take biopsies and remove polyps, which are then sent to a lab for further analysis. Here’s what could happen depending on the findings:

Normal Results

If no abnormalities are found during your colonoscopy, your doctor will likely recommend the next steps based on your age, family history, and the guidelines for colorectal screening. This typically means you won’t need another colonoscopy for ten years if you are at average risk.

Polyps Detected

Polyps are growths on the lining of the colon or rectum and can vary in size and type. They are usually benign, but some can develop into cancer over time. If polyps are found, they are usually removed during the colonoscopy and sent to a lab for a biopsy to determine if they are precancerous or cancerous. The presence of polyps may necessitate more frequent monitoring.

Colorectal Cancer

If cancer is found, the stage of the cancer will be determined. Treatment options depend on the stage and may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Early detection through a colonoscopy often results in a better prognosis because treatment can start sooner.

Other Findings

Conditions such as diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease, or hemorrhoids can also be identified. Depending on the condition, your doctor might recommend specific treatments or further diagnostic tests.

Follow-Up After a Colonoscopy

The follow-up steps after a colonoscopy depend on the findings:

• No Polyps or Cancer: If your colonoscopy is clear, and no other issues are identified, you’ll return to routine screening schedules appropriate for your risk level.
• Polyps Removed: If polyps were removed, your doctor will suggest the timing of your next colonoscopy based on the number, size, and type of polyps found. This could range from three to ten years.
• Cancer Detected: A diagnosis of colorectal cancer will lead to further evaluations to determine the extent (stage) of the cancer and discussion of treatment options. You’ll need to schedule an appointment with an oncologist.
• Other Gastrointestinal Issues: For other conditions diagnosed during the procedure, appropriate treatments or further testing will be recommended.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re due for a screening or have concerns about your digestive health, it’s crucial to act. Schedule your colonoscopy today to take an active step towards early detection and management of potential health issues. Call our office in Atlanta at (404) 351-7900.