Is a colonoscopy a surgical procedure?

Answer 1

A colonoscopy is not a mandatory procedure as part of a general health exam. However, it is recommended for men and women reaching the age of fifty to have one. A colonoscopy is an examination of the large and small bowel with a fibre-optic camera inserted via the rectum. The procedure need not be painful. Some patients are given tranquillisers in advance and some people actually sleep through the process.

Your GP may have recommended a colonoscopy if you have had symptoms of haemorrhoids or rectal/bowel discomfort. A colonoscopy can remove any existing polyps or colorectal cancer lesions for biopsy, and to determine if they are precancerous.

Answer 2

Colonoscopy is an investigation of the large bowel which is usually carried out under light sedation. A flexible camera is passed to see the bowel and occasionally biopsy may be taken or a polyp removed and all this is carried out as a Day case procedure. There is no open surgery involved in colonoscopy

Answer 3

Healthnet labels a colonoscopy as a surgical procedure. I thought it was a diagnostic test.

Answer 4

Doctors have protocols, so yes. Plus, portions of the test cause pressure and discomfort so you will want the med. Plus, the med lets you not remember how uncomfortable it felt.