Written and medically reviewed by: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD, General SurgeryLast updated:
The Colonoscopy Procedure
Diagnostic exam, therapeutic polypectomy, sedation, duration
Under sedation, a flexible colonoscope examines the entire colon. Polyps may be removed and biopsies taken in the same session. Selected cases may also need colonic stenting, decompression for obstruction or volvulus, or balloon dilation for strictures.
Outcomes of any surgical or interventional procedure may vary from person to person. Please seek a detailed consultation with your physician before any procedure.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Figure summary
This educational figure shows: Procedure.
Key points
Diagnostic phase
The endoscopist inspects the mucosa for polyps, inflammation, bleeding sources, and tumors. Cecal intubation marks a complete examination.
Therapeutic phase
Polypectomy with a snare, biopsy, bleeding control (clips, injection), colonic stent for selected obstruction or malignant stricture, decompression when the colon is distended or obstructed, and balloon dilation for benign strictures can be done during the same procedure. Large polyps may be removed piecemeal (EMR).
- Polypectomy — most common therapeutic step; pathology required
- Stent and decompression — selected obstruction/volvulus cases
- Balloon dilation — stricture; bleeding control — active bleeding
- Therapeutic steps extend procedure time and may increase complication risk
Pain and duration
With sedation, pain is uncommon. Scope time is often 20–45 minutes; total visit 2–4 hours including recovery.
- Key note inside
Risks
Bleeding and perforation are uncommon but serious — especially after large polypectomy. Heavy bleeding or severe pain needs urgent review.
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Appointment / info
This page is for education. It is not medical advice and does not replace a visit with your physician.
Medical editor: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD · Last medically reviewed: August 2026 · English patient-education chapter.