We’re Not Working To Treat Colon Cancer… We’re Working To Prevent It
90% of colon cancer deaths could have been prevented with a 25 minute colonoscopy screening
The physicians at CARI have been performing colonoscopy for over 40 years and are some of the most experienced endoscopists in the Lehigh Valley. Our ability to find polyps (adenoma detection rate) consistently falls above national averages for polyp detection rate. By finding and removing small polyps before they turn into cancer we’re actually able to PREVENT colon cancer!!
“Patients often ask if a colonoscopy is necessary…”
All other screening tests diagnose cancer (such as mammography, PSA, etc.), however, colonoscopy is one of the only procedures that can actually PREVENT you from developing colon cancer.
Written by Dr. David Bub
CARI’s doctors perform procedures at all of the hospital systems in Allentown and are not limited by credentials. We also accept most all insurances. The physicians at CARI are experts in the area of colonoscopy and colon cancer and are here to help you with any of your questions or concerns. We have written multiple books and articles on the topic, including:
Colonoscopy is performed under “conscious sedation”. This means the patient is given medicine through an IV so they are not awake, not aware, not in pain, and have no memory of the experience. Over 99% of patients relate a positive experience with the procedure. Typically, the exam will take less than 25 minutes, and patients are home usually within 1-2 hours. Patients may experience bloating and/or diarrhea for 1-2 days after the procedure.
On the day prior to the colonoscopy, the colon needs to be prepared for the procedure. Patients may consume liquids all day. A special bowel prep is given to clean out the stool from the colon. The day after colonoscopy patients can resume normal eating, medicines, and activities without any restrictions.
Colonoscopy is the most effective modality in colon cancer prevention. Colonoscopy will often be recommended for patients in the following situations:
Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon testing. Other options include barium enema, sigmoidoscopy, virtual colonography and stool testing. The advantages of colonoscopy over the other modalities include:
