What is a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible camera to check for abnormalities or disease in your lower intestine or colon. The colon is the lowest portion of the gastrointestinal tract—the series of organs that takes in food, absorbs nutrients, and disposes of waste.
Dallas colonoscopy doctor, James Hakert, M.D., uses this screening procedure to directly image and examine the entire colon with a colonoscope device. This imaging allows Dr. Hakert to screen for colon cancer and remove precancerous polyps if found. In addition, the colonoscopy is very effective for diagnosis and/or evaluation of various GI disorders (i.e. inflammatory bowel disease, abdominal pain, bleeding, change in bowel habits).
Who Should Get a Colonoscopy Procedure in Dallas TX?
Colonoscopy procedures are generally given to individuals over 50 years of age. However, that guideline can be adjusted based upon factors like family history, ethnicity and other symptoms. It is always recommended that you seek the advice of your gastroenterologist if you have any questions regarding whether you should have a colonoscopy procedure. The list below provides a good overview of criteria that Dr. Hakert uses to perform a colonoscopy on his Dallas, TX area patients, but this list is not inclusive of all indicators.
- As a screening exam for colon cancer in everyone over the age of 50 (for African Americans over the age of 45).
- As a screening exam for people with a family history of colon cancer or colon polyps
- As a surveillance exam in anyone with a personal history of colon polyps
- Evaluation for unexplained anemia
- Evaluation of rectal bleeding (blood in stool)
- Evaluation of chronic diarrhea
- Evaluation of an evolving change in bowel habits
- Evaluation of chronic abdominal pain
How Much Does a Colonoscopy Cost?
Like many other medical procedures, the cost of a Colonoscopy is determined based upon your insurance. Dr. Hakert recommends contacting your insurance provider directly to get a better understanding of the expenses related to a Colonoscopy. If you or your insurance provider should need any clarification from Dr. Hakert’s office, please contact us at 214-368-6707.
View Dr. Hakert’s Accepted Insurance Providers
What Risks are Associated with a Colonoscopy?
Since a colonoscopy is a routine procedure, there are typically few lasting effects from this procedure. The benefits of detecting problems and beginning treatment far outweigh the risks of complications from a colonoscopy.
However, some uncommon complications include:
- Bleeding
- Reaction to the sedative
- Perforation
How Do I Prepare for a Colonoscopy?
In preparation for the colonoscopy, it’s important that the colon be completely empty so the colon lining is clean and visible. Dr. Hakert will give you complete instructions for your “bowel prep,” which sounds more traumatic than it actually is. Basically, it means you must have a clear liquid diet for 24 hours prior to your procedure, and take a laxative preparation.
View the complete bowel prep Dr. Hakert uses by clicking on his Colonoscopy Procedure form below.
The typical bowel prep diet includes:
- bouillon or broth
- water
- plain coffee or tea
- pulp-free juice
- sports drinks, such as Gatorade
- avoid solid foods, dairy products and anything that is red or purple in color
Inform Dr. Hakert of any medications, which include over-the-counter drugs or supplements you are taking. Some may affect your colonoscopy, and if so, your gastroenterologist may tell you to stop taking them. These might include blood thinners, vitamins that contain iron, and certain diabetes medications.
What Happens After the Colonoscopy?
After the procedure is completed, you will stay in the recovery area approximately 30 minutes to an hour to allow the sedatives to wear off. Dr. Hakert will then review the findings with you prior to your discharge. You should not drive or work for the next 12 hours. Dr. Hakert requires that you have a ride home pre-arranged and to not use any public transportation. It’s important to note that if you see a small amount of blood in your stool after the procedure that is normal. However, if you continue to pass blood or blood clots, experience abdominal pain, or have a fever over 100°F, call Dr. Hakert for instructions.
If James Hakert, M.D. removed tissue or a polyp during the procedure, it will be sent to a laboratory for testing. Dr. Hakert will discuss the findings with you immediately after the procedure. The pathology results should be available within a week, and Dr. Hakert’s office will contact you to discuss them with you.
