A colonoscopy is a common medical procedure used to examine the large intestine. Understanding which medical specialist performs this procedure is important for patients seeking care, as their expertise contributes to comfort and safety. This examination allows for the detection and prevention of various colon conditions.
Specialists Who Perform Colonoscopies
The primary medical specialists who perform colonoscopies are gastroenterologists. These physicians undergo extensive training focused on the digestive system. After completing medical school and a three-year internal medicine residency, they pursue an additional three-year fellowship specifically in gastroenterology, gaining significant experience in endoscopic procedures like colonoscopies. This specialized training equips them to diagnose and treat a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders.
While gastroenterologists perform the majority of colonoscopies, colorectal surgeons also perform these procedures. Colorectal surgeons specialize in surgical treatments for conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus, undergoing a general surgery residency followed by additional fellowship training in colorectal surgery. Both types of specialists are trained in endoscopic techniques and are qualified to perform colonoscopies. Gastroenterologists often have a higher volume of these procedures and a primary focus on the medical management of gastrointestinal diseases.
Reasons for a Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy serves multiple purposes, from routine screenings to investigating specific symptoms. For average-risk individuals, screening for colorectal cancer typically begins at age 45. This recommendation is based on the increasing incidence of colorectal cancer in younger populations. Regular screening allows for the early detection and removal of precancerous growths called polyps, preventing them from developing into cancer.
Beyond screening, a colonoscopy is often performed to investigate unexplained symptoms. These can include persistent changes in bowel habits, such as chronic diarrhea or constipation, unexplained rectal bleeding, or blood in the stool. Abdominal pain that does not resolve, unintentional weight loss, or unexplained fatigue may also prompt a doctor to recommend a colonoscopy. This diagnostic procedure helps identify underlying causes, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, diverticulosis, or other colon conditions.
Selecting a Qualified Specialist
Choosing a qualified specialist for a colonoscopy involves considering several factors to ensure a thorough and safe procedure. A primary indicator of a specialist’s expertise is board certification in gastroenterology. This certification signifies that the physician has completed rigorous training, passed comprehensive examinations, and maintains ongoing education in their field.
Seeking a referral from your primary care physician can be a helpful first step, as they often have established relationships with reputable specialists. Patients should also consider the specialist’s experience, particularly their adenoma detection rate (ADR). The ADR measures the percentage of screening colonoscopies in which one or more precancerous polyps are found. A higher ADR suggests the physician is more effective at identifying and removing polyps, a primary goal of the procedure. Many professional organizations recommend specialists make their ADRs available, and patients are encouraged to inquire about this metric.
Your Experience with the Specialist
The patient’s experience with the specialist performing the colonoscopy begins well before the procedure itself. During initial consultations, the doctor will discuss the patient’s medical history, current health conditions, and any medications they are taking. The specialist provides detailed instructions for bowel preparation, crucial for a successful examination, and explains the procedure, including sedation options, to ensure the patient is informed and comfortable.
On the day of the colonoscopy, the specialist and their team will guide the patient through the process. The doctor reviews consent forms and answers any last-minute questions. During the procedure, which lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, the specialist carefully navigates the colonoscope to examine the inner lining of the large intestine. If polyps or other abnormalities are found, the doctor can remove them or take tissue samples for further analysis during the same procedure. Following the colonoscopy, the specialist will discuss the immediate findings, explain any removed polyps or biopsies, and outline the follow-up plan, including when the next screening might be needed.