What to expect from colonoscopy for familial adenomatous polyposis

Familial adenomatous polyposis causes many adenomatous polyps to develop in the large bowel. A colonoscopy lets the clinician inspect the bowel lining directly and take tissue samples or remove suitable polyps. The procedure uses a flexible camera passed through the rectum. Sedation can make the examination easier to tolerate, and you may not remember much of it afterward. Findings can include the number, size, appearance, and location of polyps; these details help the specialist decide whether removal, closer surveillance, or bowel surgery should be discussed.

Follow the preparation instructions precisely. This usually includes changing food choices before the appointment and drinking a prescribed bowel-cleansing solution so the lining can be seen. Tell the endoscopy team about medicines, allergies, bleeding problems, and any pregnancy possibility. Arrange an adult to take you home if sedation is used, and avoid driving until the team says it is safe. Mild bloating or cramping can occur afterward. Ask when eating, medicines, work, and the next examination should resume.

Contact the endoscopy service promptly for heavy or continuing rectal bleeding, worsening abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, faintness, or trouble breathing after the procedure. A small amount of bleeding can follow polyp removal, but the team should tell you what amount is expected and how to report it.

Ask which medicines to pause, how to complete the bowel preparation, whether polyps may be removed during the examination, when results will be available, and how the findings affect surveillance or surgical planning.