What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test that lets a doctor examine the inside of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. Dr. Gattani uses a thin, flexible tube with a small camera at the tip, called a colonoscope. The camera sends live images to a screen, so the doctor can see the lining of your colon clearly.

If something unusual is found, such as a polyp, the doctor can often remove it or take a small tissue sample (biopsy) during the same procedure.

Why is a colonoscopy done?

Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to:

  • Find the cause of stomach pain, chronic diarrhea, or constipation
  • Investigate blood in the stool or unexplained weight loss
  • Screen for colon cancer or precancerous polyps, even without symptoms
  • Follow up after a previous polyp was removed
  • Check for conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease
When to consider screening Many doctors recommend that average-risk adults begin colon cancer screening around age 45 to 50. If you have a family history of colon cancer, or symptoms like blood in the stool, screening may be recommended earlier. Ask Dr. Gattani what is right for you.

How to prepare for a colonoscopy

Your colon needs to be empty for the doctor to see clearly. Preparation usually looks like this:

  • 2–3 days before

    Your doctor may ask you to avoid seeds, nuts, and high-fibre foods.

  • 1 day before

    Switch to a clear liquid diet — water, clear soup, and plain tea. No solid food.

  • Evening before

    Take the prescribed bowel-cleansing solution exactly as instructed. This clears the colon completely.

  • Day of the procedure

    Arrive with an empty stomach. If you are being sedated, arrange for someone to drive you home.

Tell Dr. Gattani about any medicines you take, especially blood thinners, and any allergies, before your procedure.

What happens during the procedure

You will lie on your side. If sedation is used, you will feel drowsy or may sleep through the procedure. The doctor gently passes the colonoscope through the rectum and guides it through the colon, using a small amount of air to expand the colon for a clearer view. This helps the doctor examine the full length of the colon on a screen.

What happens after the procedure

You will rest in a recovery area until the sedation wears off. Mild bloating, gas, or cramping is common for a few hours and is not a cause for concern. Most patients go home the same day and return to a normal diet by the next day. If a biopsy was taken, results are usually discussed within a few days.

Is a colonoscopy safe?

Colonoscopy is considered a safe and commonly performed procedure.

Possible risks (uncommon) As with any medical procedure, there are some risks, including a reaction to the sedative, minor bleeding (especially if a polyp is removed), or, rarely, a small tear in the colon wall. Dr. Gattani will discuss these with you before the procedure.

Frequently asked questions

Most patients feel little to no pain because sedation is usually given. Some mild bloating or cramping can happen afterward and usually passes within a few hours.

Cost depends on whether sedation, biopsy, or admission is needed. Call +91 93095 59602 for current pricing.

An endoscopy examines the food pipe, stomach, and upper small intestine through the mouth. A colonoscopy examines the large intestine and rectum through the rectum.

Many doctors recommend average-risk adults start screening around age 45 to 50, or earlier with symptoms or family history. Ask Dr. Gattani for a personal recommendation.

The procedure itself usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. With preparation and recovery from sedation, plan for a few hours at the clinic.