Colon Cancer Screening

Colon cancer screening can detect polyps and cancers in the large intestine. There are several types of colon cancer screening tests that may be performed based on a patient’s age, medical history, and present symptoms.

  • Stool Tests: Stool tests may be performed as part of colon cancer screening. Fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) look for blood in the stool. The most common is the stool guaiac test. Stool tests are non-invasive and don’t require a procedure, so we’ll be focusing on other colon cancer screening tests here.
  • Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible sigmoidoscopy is used to screen for polyps, cancer, and ulcers. During the procedure, a scope is inserted to examine the rectum and the lower colon (sigmoid colon), and the descending colon. 
  • Colonoscopy A colonoscopy is the visual examination of the lining of the colon.  The large colon is about 5-6 feet long. The purpose of the exam is to identify any abnormalities by using a flexible fiberoptic tube.  The tube, which is about the thickness of your finger, is slowly passed through the length of the colon to the cecum.
  • Capsule Endoscopy 

 

How Do I Prepare for the Procedure?
What Should I Expect During the Procedure?
Are There Any Possible Complications?
What Can I Expect After the Procedure?
Do I Need a Driver?

Contact Wake Endoscopy Center

To learn more about colon cancer screening, contact Wake Endoscopy Center to get information and make an appointment. Call us at (919) 783-4888 or contact us online.