Leading Colonoscopy Center in Birmingham, Alabama
Colonoscopy at Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute, P.C
Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute, P.C., specializes in colonoscopies, including the diagnosis and treatment of both surgical and non-surgical diseases in the colon.
Regardless of age, it’s important to know how to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Our board-certified colorectal surgeons are passionate about the importance of getting screened and providing peace of mind to their patients. Contact Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute, also known as “The Butt Hut” at (205) 458-5000 to learn more about colonoscopies.
Who Should Receive a Colonoscopy?
According to the American Cancer Society, people should start regular screening at age 45. But if you are at increased risk of colorectal cancer, we recommend getting a colonoscopy sooner to reduce your risk of needing major treatment. You’re considered an increased risk of colorectal cancer if you have:
- Family history of colorectal cancer
- Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s Disease
- A personal history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps
- A personal history of getting radiation to the abdomen or pelvic area to treat the previous cancer
- A confirmed or suspected hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome, including familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome
Colonoscopies and other procedures are performed in-office; however, each patient is considered individually to determine whether treatment should be performed in-office or in a hospital. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us through our online form or call us at (205) 458-5000.
Colonoscopy Testing Options
At Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute we want you to be informed before making a decision. This is why we mention several test options that we have available here for colorectal cancer screening:
Traditional Colonoscopies:
During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube, known as a colonoscope, is inserted in the rectum. The colonoscope contains a tiny video camera at its tip that allows the doctor to view the inside of the colon.
A colonoscopy lasts approximately 30 minutes, and medication is administered to patients to allow them to feel relaxed and drowsy. Patients will be asked to lie on their left side during the procedure. The scope is then advanced to the beginning of the colon and then withdrawn, examining the lining along the way.
Most patients feel nothing during the procedure, waking up in the recovery room at the conclusion of the procedure. If a doctor sees something that seems abnormal during your screening, small amounts of tissue will be removed and analyzed. Polyps, or abnormal growths, can then be removed. To catch any new potential growths, colonoscopies can be performed every 10 years, or sooner if certain conditions are found.
Stool-Based Tests:
Depending on the test, all you have to do is submit a stool sample and we will analyze it to determine whether further tests need to be run. The Fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) and guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) can be administered every year. A less frequent test is the multi-targeted stool DNA test which can be administered every three years.
Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute will work with you to determine what test is right for you, and what tests are covered under your insurance provider. The necessary surgery and cancer screening depend on each patient’s unique needs. Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute, P.C., will discuss your options and provide feedback on potential side effects and what to expect before, during, and after surgery or screening.
Contact Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute for Your Colonoscopy Today
At Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute, P.C., all screenings and treatments are confidential, safe, cost-efficient, and high-quality. We have 3 board-certified Colon and Rectal Surgeons who are trained to provide effective, quality colorectal surgical care, colonoscopy, and transrectal ultrasound services. Surgeries are performed at multiple sites, including local hospitals and at our outpatient AAAASF-accredited surgical facility. Our office is located in the Southside area of Birmingham.
To learn more about colonoscopy screenings, contact us at (205) 458-5000 or fill out our online form.