For this procedure, an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a small video camera, is used to examine the internal lining of the rectum and colon (large intestine). A colonoscopy can find colorectal growths, or polyps, so they can be removed before they become cancerous.
For those at average risk for colorectal cancer, a colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years beginning at age 45. Colonoscopy may also be recommended to evaluate for symptoms and treat some problems in the colon or rectum.
Several Valley Health specialists including gastroenterologists and general surgeons perform colonoscopies.
