The surgeon who performs your colonoscopy will identify any polyps or abnormalities in the colon that could be indicative of a health issue. Any polyps will be removed and transmitted to a pathologist. Our surgeons are experienced at diagnosing and treating both colon cancer and other GI disorders. At times, removing the polyps through a colonoscopy can reduce or prevent colon cancer without further treatment being necessary, making a colonoscopy both a diagnostic procedure and a treatment for some.
Our physicians have years of experience perfoming colonoscopies and treating abnormalities. Many of our board certified surgeons also perform oncological surgeries in addition to routine procedures, like colonoscopies. Each of our procedures are performed at Northeast Georgia Medical Center with the most current technologies. For this reason, we can ensure that our patients receive the best care possible and a comfortable, smooth experience.
To schedule an appointment with NGPG Surgical Associates, please call us today at 770-219-9200 or use the form on this page.
First, the bowel is cleansed. The patient is then sedated and a lighted flexible scope is steered through the colon, examining the lining for abnormalities. This procedure is done in an outpatient endoscopy suite. Sigmoidoscopy is usually an office procedure and doesn't require sedation, but the exam doesn't reach the entire colon.
Anyone can be a candidate for evaluation if they are having symptoms. Current guidelines suggest a yearly rectal exam as young as age 40, but the use of x-rays or scope procedures is usually reserved until age 50. If you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, you may be recommended for testing at a younger age.