Dat T. Nguyen, M.D., performs colonoscopy in Pleasanton. A skilled colorectal surgeon, Dr. Nguyen has years of experience performing the procedure. A colonoscopy allows him to diagnose ulcers, rectal and colon cancer, and other intestinal abnormalities in order to provide the most effective treatment. If you are suffering from gastrointestinal problems, undergoing a colonoscopy may be helpful. Patients in San Ramon and East Bay can rest assured that they are in good hands when they receive treatment from Dr. Nguyen.
A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to examine the colon and large intestine. The colon – the final portion of the digestive tract between the small intestine and the rectum and anus – serves the important functions of absorbing nutrients and water, storing food waste, and eliminating that waste as stool. Since disorders of the colon can affect digestion, elimination, and overall health, it is important to accurately diagnose and treat those disorders. One of the most valuable diagnostic tools for these problems is a colonoscopy. Patients in the San Ramon and East Bay areas needing colon and rectal cancer screening or experiencing intestinal problems can receive outstanding care by our experienced doctor, Dr. Dat T. Nguyen.
A colonoscopy is useful for collecting samples and detecting numerous abnormalities in the intestinal tract, including bleeding, inflamed tissue (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), abnormal growths (polyps), diverticulosis / diverticular disease, and rectal and colon cancer. The procedure is often prescribed for patients needing colon and rectal cancer screening or for patients experiencing the following symptoms:
If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may benefit from having a colonoscopy. Contact our bariatric surgeon in Pleasanton today to schedule a consultation.
Preparation – Since the colon must be completely empty for the colonoscopy, patients need to follow a diet of liquids for one to two days before the procedure. To assure the colon is completely free of waste, most patients take a laxative the day before the procedure.
The colonoscopy procedure – The outpatient colonoscopy procedure is performed at outpatient surgery centers in Pleasanton, San Ramon, Livermore and in Castro Valley. Before the colonoscopy, patients are given pain medication and a light sedative to keep them relaxed. The procedure is performed using a colonoscope, a thin, flexible rod approximately five feet long with a small video camera attached to the end. The colonoscope is gently inserted into rectum and maneuvered around the curves of the colon. It projects images of entire large intestine and rectal area, and even the lower part of the small intestine, onto a video screen for the physician’s viewing. Dr. Nguyen can remove or biopsy abnormal tissue using tiny tools passed through the scope. When the colonoscope reaches the beginning of the colon ( or large intestine) it is slowly withdrawn to allow a careful inspection of the colon and rectal lining. The entire procedure usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Patients will be discharged once recovered from sedation.
Colonoscopies have a very low risk of serious complications. After the colonoscopy, some cramping and bloating are common but usually resolve quickly. Rare side effects include abdominal pain, fever, bloody stool, and dizziness or weakness following the procedure. More rare but serious complications include those related to sedation and tearing of the lining of the colon (gastrointestinal perforation). Patients who experience these symptoms after a colonoscopy should contact our office in Pleasanton immediately.
If you are suffering from unusual bowel changes, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or other symptoms, it is important to speak to a skilled doctor. To have colorectal problems diagnosed, contact our colorectal and bariatric surgeon to schedule a colonoscopy. We provide patients from Pleasanton, San Ramon, and East Bay with outstanding service.
To schedule a colonoscopy, contact our office serving Pleasanton, San Ramon, and East Bay.
Dat T. Nguyen, M.D., Inc.
5565 W. Las Positas Blvd. Ste. 360, Pleasanton, California 94588
Phone: (925) 460-3205
Fax: (925) 460-3795
Dr. Dat Tien Nguyen is a very personable and experienced colorectal and cancer surgeon....
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