Colonoscopy in Tijuana: 30 minutes that can prevent cancer
A colonoscopy examines the entire colon with a thin, flexible camera. It finds the cause of bleeding or changes in bowel habits and removes polyps before they can become cancer, usually in the same session.
Colonoscopy
The study is done under sedation, so you sleep through it and feel no pain. A flexible tube with a high-definition camera is advanced through the colon; if polyps are found, they are removed and sent to pathology.
It is the reference test for colorectal cancer screening from age 45 and the most direct way to study rectal bleeding, anemia, chronic diarrhea or a change in bowel habits.
When is it recommended?
- Screening from age 45, or earlier with family history
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- A lasting change in bowel habits
- Unexplained anemia or weight loss
- Follow-up after polyps, diverticulitis or IBD
The diagnosis is confirmed at your evaluation.
How a colonoscopy goes
Preparation
A clear-liquid diet the day before and a laxative solution to clean the colon. A clean colon is what makes the study reliable.
Sedation
An anesthesiologist gives you sedation through a vein. You will be asleep and monitored the whole time.
The study
It takes about 20 to 40 minutes. Polyps are removed and biopsies taken if needed.
Results
You wake up in recovery, receive the findings in writing with images and go home the same day with a companion.
Recovery and aftercare
You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours. You can eat lightly the same day and return to normal activity the next. You must not drive for the rest of the day because of the sedation; if you cross the border, come with someone who can drive. Pathology results take a few days.
What people ask most
Does a colonoscopy hurt?
No. It is done under sedation and you will not feel or remember the procedure. The part most people find unpleasant is the bowel preparation the day before.
How do I prepare?
You will receive written instructions: clear liquids the day before, the laxative solution in two doses and an adjustment of certain medications such as blood thinners or diabetes drugs.
Can I come from San Diego and go back the same day?
Yes. The study is outpatient. You need a companion to drive you, and the preparation can be done at home the day before.
This page offers general information and does not replace a medical visit. Every case is assessed individually; results and recovery times vary from person to person.
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Laparoscopy lets the surgeon operate on the colon and rectum through incisions of about half an inch, guided by a high-definition camera.
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