Colonoscopy

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Did you know that a colonoscopy is the gold-standard screening procedure for detecting precancerous polyps and cancers of the gastrointestinal tract? 
Knox Community Hospital's Express Endo service makes scheduling your colonoscopy procedure more accessible and convenient than ever. 

Health professionals now encourage people over age 45 to talk with their primary care provider about the need for a colonoscopy, but many put it off because they don't have symptoms. In the early stages, precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms, so getting screened is your best defense toward early detection. 

When patients are eligible for Express Endo, it saves our patients from having to come in for a paid office visit. To schedule a procedure, we ask for participation in a quick phone screening conducted by a nursing staff member. They will gather your medical and family history and any symptoms you are experiencing and obtain a list of your prescriptions. Our office does not require a provider referral for this service.

When the screening is complete, all paperwork will be mailed to eligible patients with directions to prepare for the procedure. A scheduler will follow up to schedule the date of the surgery. If an office visit would benefit you most, we can also send a quick referral to schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons.

Early detection of most cancers leads to better patient outcomes and higher cure rates. Regardless of age, if you're experiencing blood in the stool, black or tarry-looking stool, abdominal pain that doesn't go away, unexplained weight loss, or have a family history of colon cancer, you may be a candidate for a colonoscopy.

KCH general surgeons perform colonoscopies and endoscopies using CO2 instead of air, significantly decreasing uncomfortable bloating and gas afterward. 

A referral is not required to use the Express Endo service. To start the screening process, call 740.393.5205.