Colonoscopy Specialist

What is a colonoscopy? 

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that can detect colorectal cancers and other diseases of the colon and rectum, such as ulcerative colitis. Dr. Yavrouian can also treat the early stages of colorectal cancer during a colonoscopy.

Colorectal cancers affect your colon and rectum, the last parts of your digestive system that lead to the anus. The cancers develop from small growths known as polyps in the lining of your colon. Most colon polyps aren't cancerous and cause no problems, but sometimes the cells within them mutate and develop into malignant tumors.

Using colonoscopy to detect the polyps when they first appear enables Dr. Yavrouian to remove the growths before they become cancerous. If colorectal cancer is already present, he can remove the tumors before they spread into other tissues and organs.

What happens when I have a colonoscopy?

Dr. Yavrouian performs your colonoscopy as an outpatient procedure. You have a sedative to keep you comfortable, and you lie on your side with bent knees. He inserts the colonoscope (a long, slender, flexible tube) into your anus and carefully feeds it along your rectum and colon.

The colonoscope's camera sends video of the lining of your rectum and colon to a monitor for Dr. Yavrouian to view. He can see the tissues in detail and spot any polyps, inflammation that could indicate colitis, and problems like abscesses, fissures, or fistulas.

Dr. Yavrouian removes any polyps or tumors and may take samples of any abnormal-looking tissues that he finds. Then you return to the recovery room until the sedative wears off.

Should I have a routine colonoscopy?

Even if you have no particular risk factors for colorectal cancer, you should still undergo a screening colonoscopy from the age of 45. Dr. Yavrouian can advise you on how often you need to have another colonoscopy.

If you’re more at risk of developing colorectal cancer, you should begin screening colonoscopies at an earlier age. Risk factors include having inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) or a family history of colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of premature death in the United States and may lead to life-altering surgery if you need part of your colon and rectum removed. Attending regular screening colonoscopies minimizes your risk of developing cancer and could save your life.

To arrange a colonoscopy and avoid the devastating effects of having colorectal cancer, call Dr. Robert Yavrouian today or book an appointment online.