How to Prepare for a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is an examination of the interior lining of a patients large intestine. Tissue samples can be taken during a colonoscopy; these tissue samples are known as biopsies. These procedures are taken in order to test for
colon polyps, ulcers, and areas of bleeding.

Clean Colon Before Colonoscopy

In order to have a successful colonoscopy, a patient must clean out their colon prior to the examination. This is one of the most important things a patient must do before a colonoscopy. If a patient does not clean out their bowls prior to a colonoscopy, the view of their colon may be obstructed.

One such method of doing this is to ingest Oral sodium phosphate tablets. These tablets are sold under the brand names of Visicol and OsmoPrep. To the use this method, the pataint must injest twenty tablets the evening before the examination. Four are to be taken at a time, with around 8 ounces of water about every fifteen minutes. Sometimes twelve to twenty tablats are taken a few hours before the procudure. Oral sodium phosphate tablets are more effective than liquid oral sodium phosephate and polyethylene glycol(PEG). One downside to oral sodium phosphate is it may cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

A second method that can be used is a Magnesium citrate or Bisacodyl laxative. These laxative may be used in conjunction with a low dose of PEG. One of the disadvantages of this method it that dehydration can occur.

For more information please look around our website or contact us. Thank you for choosing our office for colonoscopy in San Antonio.