Colonoscapy

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Colonoscopy? Colonoscapy is a common misspelling of colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy is used to check for early signs of colon and rectal cancer. It can also be used to help determine the cause of unexplained changes in bowel habits. During this common medical procedure, a long, flexible camera is inserted into the rectum. If the physician sees anything abnormal, like a polyp or inflamed tissue, it is removed using tiny instruments passed through the scope.

This procedure has been done for many years and does not typically result in complications. However, problems have been known to occur. In some cases, abnormal growths can be missed. In very rare circumstances, bleeding and perforation of the colon could occur.

(Click Colonoscopy for more in-depth information, including a step-by-step look at what happens during the procedure and details about how long it typically takes. You can also click on any of the links in the box to the right for more specific information.)