Diagnostic Services
Learn about...Colonoscopy at GCMC
The Purpose of the Procedure
Insurance Coverage
Preparation for the Procedure
The Day of the Procedure
The Colonoscope
The Procedure
What the Physician Sees
After the Procedure
Home Again and Discussion of Test Results
Summary
Preparation for the Procedure
During the office visit your physician will explain the procedure and how to prepare for it. Your colon must be completely empty for a successful colonoscopy. As a rule, you will follow a liquid diet for 1-3 days prior to the procedure and take laxatives. It is imperative that you follow the instructions you received from your physician. If only a tiny bit of residue remains in your bowl, the view could be obstructed, and your physician may be unable to detect possible abnormalities.
A liquid diet consists of: popsicles, hard candies, jell-O, coffee, tea, sugar, juices without pulp, soup: clear broth or bouillon, ginger ale or soda pop.
Remember: Do Not Drink Milk or Milk Products and Don't Eat Any Solids.
In order to access your physician's specific instructions, please enter the password provided by you physician in the Explorer User Prompt window.