A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows the doctor to examine the entire length of the colon (large intestine) and rectum using a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached, called a colonoscope. It helps detect abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, and bleeding.

It's commonly recommended for rectal bleeding, unexplained changes in bowel habits, chronic diarrhea or constipation, unexplained abdominal pain, iron deficiency anemia, a family history of colorectal cancer, or as part of routine colorectal cancer screening after a certain age.

The patient is usually given mild sedation for comfort. The colonoscope is gently inserted through the rectum and guided through the entire colon while the doctor examines the lining on a screen in real time. If polyps or abnormal tissue are found, they can often be removed or biopsied during the same procedure. It typically takes 20–30 minutes.

A colonoscopy can help diagnose colorectal polyps, colorectal cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, diverticular disease, and causes of unexplained bleeding or chronic diarrhea.

The bowel needs to be completely empty for a clear examination. This involves following a special diet a day or two before the procedure, taking a prescribed bowel-cleansing solution the evening before or morning of the procedure, and avoiding solid foods as directed. Dr. Sheth's clinic will provide detailed preparation instructions in advance.

Polypectomy is the removal of polyps - small growths on the inner lining of the colon during a colonoscopy. Since some polyps can develop into cancer over time, removing them early is an important preventive step, and it's usually done painlessly in the same sitting as the colonoscopy.