Colonoscopy Specialist
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Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants
Darrien Gaston, MD, FACP, FACG
Gastroenterologist located in Beverly, Chicago, IL
On average, colorectal cancers kill an estimated 50,000 people each year in the United States, but with proper screening, these numbers can be reduced. Darrien Gaston, MD, FACP, FACG, has over 25 years experience as a gastroenterologist and has performed thousands of colonoscopies. With the ability to conveniently perform the procedure right in his Chicago office, Dr. Gaston helps prevent colorectal cancers and other issues of the large intestine. Contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants today or book a consultation online to learn more.
Colonoscopy Q & A
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a test that allows Dr. Gaston to examine the lining of your colon, also referred to as the large intestine, for abnormalities. He uses a colonoscope: A thin, flexible tube with a lens and a light that projects the inside of your colon onto a video monitor. These tests are used to screen for cancer, polyps, and other disorders of the large intestine.
While many gastroenterologists require patients to have the procedure done at a hospital, Dr. Gaston can do it right in his office.
Why should you have a colonoscopy?
Dr. Gaston recommends a colonoscopy for anyone who’s at risk for colorectal cancer. As the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, an average of 150,000 new cases of colon cancer are diagnosed each year. Since a colonoscopy is a screening test, it has the potential to save at least 30,000 lives a year.
Dr. Gaston may also order a colonoscopy when you have bleeding, chronic diarrhea, or pain near the colon.
How do you prepare for a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopies require preparation. Dr. Gaston discusses specific dietary restrictions, as well as the type of colon cleansing that’s needed.
Most cases require that you have a clear liquid diet the day before the procedure. You may also be given a cleaning solution or oral laxatives to clear your bowels. Either one helps clean the colon, allowing Dr. Gaston to examine the large intestine thoroughly.
If you take medications, discuss them with Dr. Gaston before the procedure. While most medications are safe to take, some may cause issues during the colonoscopy, including:
- Aspirin
- Arthritis medications
- Anticoagulants
- Insulin
- Iron supplements
Dr. Gaston performs colonoscopies in his Chicago office, so there’s no need to go to the hospital for the procedure. He may administer a sedative or pain medication before the colonoscopy, and asks that you bring someone with you to drive you home.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
When Dr. Gaston performs a colonoscopy, he positions you on your side or back and inserts a colonoscope through your anus and into your large intestine. He’s able to maneuver it and examine your bowels by controlling the colonoscope with the endoscope handle.
Once the procedure is complete, the colonoscope is gently removed. The whole process takes around 45 minutes, although 2-3 hours may be needed for recovery.
When you want the convenience of an in-office colonoscopy, contact Dr. Gaston, MD at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants. Call the office to schedule your appointment or book it online today.
