Colonoscopy Specialist
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Lake Jackson Surgical Clinic
Henry E Martinez, MD
Breast and General Surgeon & Laparoscopic Surgeon located in Lake Jackson, TX
Colonoscopy is the most effective way to diagnose and prevent colorectal cancer. Starting at about age 45, most men and women need a screening colonoscopy about once every 10 years. At Lake Jackson Surgical Clinic, expert physician Henry Martinez, MD, performs colonoscopy screenings at the frequency best for you. Colonoscopy is also an important diagnostic tool if you’re experiencing abdominal issues. If he discovers a problem requiring surgery, Dr. Martinez is also a general surgery specialist who can skillfully repair damage and preserve your health. Call the Lake Jackson, Texas, office or arrange your appointment online today.
Colonoscopy Q & A
What is a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a screening and diagnostic test in which Dr. Martinez examines your large intestine (colon). As a screening test, colonoscopy checks for colon cancer and its early indicators. Dr. Martinez may also perform colonoscopy to diagnose abdominal issues.
How does colonoscopy work?
Before your colonoscopy, Dr. Martinez gives you specific preparation guidelines. This includes avoiding solid foods the day prior to the test as well as taking a bowel preparation to clean out your colon. You may also need to temporarily change your medications.
You receive a sedative before your colonoscopy begins. Usually, this makes you drowsy and relaxed. It's normal to doze through the procedure and not remember it afterward.
Dr. Martinez has you lie on your left side and he moves a colonoscope, a thin, flexible tube, into your anus and through your large intestine. This tube contains a miniature camera that transmits images while expanding the colon with air to make it more visible.
Dr. Martinez studies the images on a monitor, looking for abnormalities or problems. He may remove a small tissue sample for testing (a biopsy). If you have polyps, a common abnormal growth in the large intestine, Dr. Martinez can remove them during your colonoscopy.
After completing the exam, Dr. Martinez withdraws the colonoscope and then has you relax in a recovery room for a short time until you're alert. A loved one can drive you home after that.
When should I have a colonoscopy?
For cancer screening colonoscopy, the American Cancer Society recommends starting at age 45. But, if you have a higher risk for colon cancer, you may need to start earlier.
After your first test, you should have a cancer-screening colonoscopy at least once every 10 years. Dr. Martinez can recommend the best colonoscopy schedule for your particular needs.
If you have chronic abdominal problems like pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, or other intestinal issues, Dr. Martinez may perform colonoscopy as a diagnostic test. He can diagnose colon cancer, diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other conditions during this type of test.
Colonoscopy is an outpatient test that can be life-changing — or life-saving! It can identify early-stage cancer and find the root causes of serious abdominal distress. Schedule a colonoscopy at Lake Jackson Surgical Clinic by phone or using online scheduling anytime.