What it’s Like?
Colonoscopy
The colonoscope is a thin, flexible tube with a camera at its tip, much like the flexible sigmoidoscope, but longer. It lets the doctor examine the lining of your entire bowel and remove any polyps. If any are found, they will be sent to a lab and tested for cancerous cells.
Pros
- Screens upper and lower colon
- Suspicious polyps are immediately removed
Cons
- Requires highly trained physician
- Prep can be daunting for some
- Availability varies by region.
- Not always covered by OHIP
Ask your doctor for more information about the risks associated with colonoscopies.