Although many physicians offer colonoscopy, not all exams are the same. Ohio State physicians have received extensive training for colonoscopy and perform them in high volumes, which ensures you have a safe, high-quality, comprehensive examination. We also incorporate the latest technology.
Free colonoscopy screening program
Through partnership with the Columbus Free Clinic, free colonoscopies are offered to residents in the Columbus community who require a colonoscopy and are uninsured or who meet certain financial criteria.
For questions, you can call the Columbus Free Clinic at 614-259-7707.
Using advanced technology to detect colon cancer
GI Genius, authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2021, is the first device that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help doctors detect polyps in the colon in real time during a colonoscopy.
The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center is the first academic medical center in the United States to utilize this new technology to aid colon cancer prevention.
The EVIS X1 Endoscopy System enhances visualization on endoscopy by adopting new technology of texture and color enhancement imaging (TXI Technology) and red dichromatic imaging (RDI technology).
The latest treatments using endoscopy
Our advanced endoscopy team offers sophisticated procedures with colonoscopy to safely treat complex large polyps or early colon cancer, and to improve symptoms from bowel obstruction. These procedures may include:
- Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR)
- Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD)
- Colonic stenting
- Colonic stricture dilation
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you eat during bowel prep?
It’s important to closely follow the bowel prep instructions and avoid certain food and drinks as recommended before your testing.
Five (5) days before your test, you may eat food such as:
- Milk, cream, cheese, yogurt, sour cream, hot chocolate
- Breads and grains made with refined white flour, white rice, plain crackers, low-fiber cereal including puffed rice, corn flakes
- Meat
- Egg
- Juice without pulp, applesauce, fruit without seeds or skin
- Canned or cooked vegetables without skin or peel, tofu
- Broth, bouillon, strained soups, milk or cream-based soup
- Ice cream, sorbet, plain pudding, custard, Jell-O or gelatin without added fruits or red or purple dye, cookies or cake made with white flour without seeds, nuts, or dried fruit
- Ensure, Boost without added fiber
One to two (1-2) days before your test (depending on your instructions), you’ll switch to a clear liquid diet. You can drink clear and light-colored liquids up to four (4) hours before your test. Do not have anything with red or purple dye.
How do you know when bowel prep is complete?
Good bowel prep is essential to have a high-quality colonoscopy exam. Otherwise, abnormalities in the colon, such as polyps, can be hidden by stool and undetected during your testing. Your colonoscopy may have to be repeated if bowel prep is not completed properly.
You should follow the diet instructions thoroughly and take the entire bowel preparation as prescribed. Your stool should be clear or yellow and translucent after you have completed the bowel prep.
Bowel prep color guide
Dark, murky: NOT READY
Brown, murky: NOT READY
Dark orange, semi-clear: NOT READY
Light orange, mostly clear: ALMOST READY
Yellow, clear: READY
Sometimes despite following bowel prep instructions, your stool is still not clear and additional steps are needed. Call your doctor prior to your procedure if you think your prep is inadequate.
If you have a history of inadequate bowel prep, or any medical conditions that may slow down your bowel movements, such as constipation or chronic opioid use, you may need to discuss special bowel prep instructions with your doctor.
Why does another adult need to come with me?
You will receive sedatives to keep you comfortable and sleepy that may impact your short-term memory and decision-making. You should not drive or work and must have a responsible adult take you home. You may return to your daily routine the day after your testing.
What should I bring with me for the procedure?
Please bring: a photo ID, insurance card, co-payment, and living will, if applicable.
Provide a written list of your medical conditions, prior surgeries, medications and allergies.
Wear comfortable clothes as you will be asked to change into a hospital gown for your procedure.
Do NOT bring: Valuables or jewelry, including piercings. You will be asked to remove jewelry prior to your procedure.
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