Colonoscopy with Endoscopic Procedure (for Biopsy or Polypectomy)
This test involves a procedure where a doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) to examine your colon. It may also include removing small tissue samples (biopsies) or removing polyps during the same visit.
["A colonoscopy helps check for abnormalities in your colon and may include removing tissue for further testing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111958-5
- Short code
- Endoscopic proc Colon Endscpy
- Synonyms
- Endoscopic proc Colon Endscpy
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- endoscopy
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What to Expect Before the Procedure
You may receive a mild sedative to relax you during the procedure. Your doctor will explain how to prepare, which often includes fasting for a few hours and possibly using laxatives to clear your bowels. You’ll likely need someone to drive you home afterward due to the sedation.
During the Procedure
A doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) through your rectum into your colon. The camera allows the doctor to see inside your colon and identify any issues like polyps, inflammation, or signs of disease. If needed, they may take small tissue samples (biopsies) or remove polyps during the procedure.
You may feel some discomfort or mild abdominal pain for a day or two. Your doctor will provide instructions on managing pain, taking medications, and when to return for follow-up. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until fully alert.
You’ll likely have a bowel movement soon after the procedure, and you may experience mild bloating or gas. Your doctor will review the results with you during your follow-up visit.
Why This Test Is Done
A colonoscopy is often recommended to diagnose or monitor conditions like colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), polyps, or unexplained changes in bowel habits. It can also help track the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This procedure helps detect early signs of serious conditions, such as cancer or precancerous polyps, which can be removed during the same visit. It provides a clear picture of your colon’s health and guides treatment decisions.
Short name
Colonoscopy with Procedure
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from a colonoscopy procedure?
Will I feel pain during the colonoscopy?
Can I eat or drink before a colonoscopy?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy