A video colonoscopy is a medical procedure that uses a colonoscope—a long, flexible tube equipped with a tiny video camera and light at the end—to examine the interior lining of the colon and rectum. This allows for the detection of abnormalities such as polyps, cancers, and areas of inflammation directly on a video monitor.

Video colonoscopy is primarily performed for colorectal cancer screening and is recommended for adults starting at age 45 or earlier for those with a family history of colorectal cancer. It's also used to investigate intestinal signs and symptoms, such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits, and to monitor and treat conditions like inflammatory bowel diseases.

Preparation involves a bowel cleanse to empty the colon, ensuring a clear view. This usually requires following a special diet a few days before the procedure and taking a laxative solution or enemas as prescribed. It's essential to follow all preparation instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure the success of the colonoscopy.

During the procedure, you'll lie on your side on the examination table. Sedation is typically administered for comfort. The colonoscope is gently inserted through the rectum into the colon. Air or carbon dioxide is introduced to inflate the colon for better visibility. The video camera sends images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the colon and rectum.

While video colonoscopy is generally safe, there are potential risks, including reactions to the sedative, bleeding from biopsy or polyp removal sites, and in rare cases, perforation of the colon wall. However, these complications are uncommon.

Post-procedure, you may feel a bit groggy until the sedative wears off and might experience some bloating or cramping due to the air introduced into the colon. Most people can resume their normal diet and activities by the next day. Results from biopsies or polyp removals are typically available within a few days.