Skip Navigation

    Colonoscopy

    Colorectal Cancer is Preventable
    That’s why we’re here.

    A colonoscopy is a medical procedure, performed under sedation, that examines the large intestine (colon) using a thin, flexible tube equipped with a small camera called a colonoscope. Special instruments can be passed through the colonoscope to biopsy (sample) or remove any suspicious-looking areas, such as polyps, if needed. 

    The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends colonoscopy for adults at average risk of colorectal cancer starting at age 45 and continuing every 10 years thereafter. Screenings like a colonoscopy are essential because they can remove pre-cancerous polyps and detect colorectal cancer at an early stage, when it is most treatable.

    Find a Gastroenterologist
     
     

    Peace of mind is just a screening away.

    A colonoscopy helps find polyps that can be removed before they become cancerous. It can also identify colon and rectal cancers early, when the odds of successful treatment are highest. Colon and rectal cancer rates have increased in young and middle-aged adults.

    *If you’re 45 or older, ask your doctor about scheduling a colonoscopy.

    Take a Health Risk Assessment
     
     
     
     

    Why get screened for colon cancer?

    Screening may find diseases at an early stage, when a doctor has a better chance of treating or preventing the disease. The American College of Gastroenterology recommends screening for colon cancer:

    • At age 40 for any person with a first degree relative with colon cancer.
    • At age 45 for African Americans because they have an increased risk of developing the disease.
    • At age 45 for people who are not at increased risk of the disease.
     
     

    Colonoscopy Prep Instructions

    According to the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, it is important that your colon is thoroughly cleaned before your colonoscopy. This way, your doctor can examine your colon for abnormalities like polyps without interference. The process of cleansing your colon before a colonoscopy is called "prep." This process begins approximately one week before your colonoscopy with the discontinuing of specific medications and ramps up in the days leading up to your procedure.

    Follow the link below to download the colonoscopy prep instructions specific to Watertown Regional Medical Center before your procedure. 

    Download Colonoscopy Prep Instructions Download EGD & Colonoscopy Prep Instructions Informacion Sobre la Colonoscopia
     
     

    Search Doctors

    Take control of your urological health and well-being.

    Find a Gastroenterologist

    Our Location

    125 Hospital Drive
    Watertown, WI 53098

    Get Directions

    Schedule Appointment

    Make an appointment for your colonoscopy today.

    Call 920.206.3042