If you're preparing to have a colonoscopy in Colorado Springs, you've come to the right place to get more information! 2023 Associates in Gastroenterology, P.C. Call us today! We are a non-profit, non-tax-supported community hospital that is dedicated to serving the needs of residents throughout northwest Colorado. Please note that if your insurance information has changed since you were last seen at our practice, you must update your information in person at least 5 days prior to your procedure. This helps us better accommodate patients with urgent needs. Phone Number. Your primary care physician may refer you to a UC Health specialist to deal with a specific medical problem. PENRAD Imaging, LLC has provided Southern Colorado patients and physicians excellent and comprehensive medical imaging services for our community for over 30 years. 3050 North Circle Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80909, 4105 Briargate Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80920, 1263 Lake Plaza Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80906, 2202 North Nevada Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80907, 6011 E Woodmen Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80923, 4925 North Nevada Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80918, 17230 Jackson Creek Parkway Monument, CO 80132, To request an appointment, click here or call (719) 785-9000 option 1. Chronic pancreatitisChronic pancreatitis develops from long-term inflammation that permanently damages the pancreas. Gender: Men have a slightly higher risk of this cancer than women. Dr. Harmon's office is located at Colorado Springs, CO 80909. Close. 2023 The Regents of the University of California. We will ask to see your insurance card at each visit, and any copayments must be paid upon arrival. Following the procedure there may also be some discomfort and mild abdominal pain that should be relieved as air from the procedure leaves the colon. If you think you may have been exposed to the new coronavirus, COVID-19 (either through travel to ahigh risk areaor close contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19), pleasecontact usbefore visiting. The death rate of colorectal cancer has been dropping for several decades because colorectal polyps are now more often found by screening and removed before they can develop into cancers. We believe that colonoscopy is up to 90% effective in reducing deaths related to colon cancer (National Polyp Study, 1993). Patients that miss three or more scheduled appointments without notifying our office may be dismissed from the practice. Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology | Colorado - UCHealth - Live Extraordinary Anyone can get colorectal cancer. . Obstetrics and Gynecology, Professor; Dr. Thompson has a special interest in general Obstetrics/Gynecology, abnormal pap smears, sexually transmitted infection and HPV. Regular colonoscopy screenings have resulted in a reduction in colorectal cancers of more than 70% and lowered colorectal cancer deaths by more than 50%. We combine traditional GI medicine alongside healthy lifestyle methods. It can also be performed as a diagnostic tool for problematic symptoms such as: A colonoscopy is screening at its peak, so if you receive positive test results back from other screening tests that are used to help detect colorectal cancer such as a stool test, flexible sigmoidoscopy, multi-targeted stool DNA test or computerized tomography (CT) colonography a colonoscopy will be used as a follow-up diagnostic test. Schedule Appointment - UCHealth - Live Extraordinary With seven state-of-the-art imaging centers throughout Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region and all of our imaging equipment accredited by the American College of Radiology, the highest quality standard in America. Learn how to avoid them, and get tips on managing food allergies. Colorado Springs, CO Not Ranked in Gastroenterology & GI Surgery Overview Rankings Overview Rankings Gastroenterology & GI Surgery Scorecard Schedule an appointment - Gastroenterology Associates of Colorado Springs Most patients tolerate the procedure very well with little memory of the actual procedure. Your recovery will begin in a private room where you will be provided with warm blankets and socks as well as gourmet drinks from our Bottoms Up Cafe. A Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT), in which patients collect a small sample of stool at home, then send it to a provider or lab to test. PENRAD @ Broadmoor Area Centura Neighborhood Health Center, PENRAD @ The William J. Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance Center, PENRAD @ Tri-Lakes Health Pavilion in Monument, PENRAD @ The William J. Hybl Sports Medicine & Performance Center, Accessibility Requirements and Non Discrimination Policy. New patient appointment If you experience fever, persistent or significant pain or unexpected bleeding after a colonoscopy, you should alert your provider immediately. He graduated from Allama Iqbal Medical College, University Of Health Sciences Lahore in 1999. 9548 Park Meadows Drive Lone Tree, CO 80124. Insurance Company KaiserBlue Cross Blue ShieldUnited HealthcareCignaAetnaMedicareUMRPHCSHumana (Select Plan Only)Best - ContinentalOther, Choose Provider If either test is positive, a colonoscopy is usually required. Colonoscopy Screening | Welcome to GACS It can also be performed as a diagnostic tool for problematic symptoms such as: Bowel changes, including chronic constipation or diarrhea. It is also the only screening test that allows the physician to identify and remove precancerous polyps before colorectal cancer develops. Colposcopy is a procedure in which the cervix, vagina and vulva are closely examined using a special magnifying tool called a colposcope. Access your medical records online, anytime. Kendell Mann, MDDr. We also provide surgical management when necessary. Screening also helps identify patients at high risk, or those with multiple or large polyps, who need closer monitoring. Applying hot moist towels may help relieve discomfort. When you visit our practice in Colorado Springs to have a colonoscopy, we try to make your visit as easy as possible. CU OB-GYN will need to obtain your records before any procedures or services can be provided. Facebook; Facebook; Group Health Coaching | Patient Portal; Location: 1699 Medical Center Point; 0 Items. A colonoscopy is an elective procedure that is routinely used to screen for colorectal cancer, which is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. You will be instructed to arrive 1 hour before your scheduled procedure time in order to properly prepare for the procedure. We make every effort possible to accommodate urgent needs, allowing patients to be seen within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the urgency of the situation. Most often, women visit the clinic following abnormal results from a Pap smear or pelvic exam. UCHealth Memorial Hospital Gastroenterology & GI Surgery Looking for something else? A sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy, but it does not evaluate the entire colon. Fighting Lynch syndrome with information and vigilance, Live Well's most popular stories of 2022, UCI Health, one of Americas 'Best Cancer Hospitals', UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge hits milestone in search for next breakthrough cancer treatments, Colorectal cancer specialist discusses little-known gene mutation linked to the disease, Anesthesiology team to 'Green the OR with carbon-neutral operating rooms, An imaging test or a sigmoidoscopy every five years, A strong family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, especially in a parent or sibling who developed the condition before age 40, or in two first-degree relatives of any age, A family with hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes, such as familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer, A personal history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps. Use simple search criteria filter by service type or view the map to find the closest facility to you. Our local team of fellowship-trained, sub-specialized radiologistsguarantees your images are not just read, but analyzed by the best experts in their field. We delight in providing outstanding personalized patient care. Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of burnout, and discover practical strategies for recovery. Patients should be able to eat normally after returning home unless any obstructions or polyps were removed during the procedure in which case your diet may be restricted. Not smoking and limiting alcohol may help lower your risk. Your physician may instill water or air into the colon to help with visualization. Colonoscopy combines the best method for finding polyps and early colorectal cancers. It is also used to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum. Colorectal Cancer Screening Appointment Information Scheduling routine & urgent visits Both routine and urgent appointments should be scheduled during regular office hours. Use this option if you don't have a My Health Connection account and want to schedule an appointment with a new primary care provider. However, be advised that some insurance companies take several days to process requests. Our experts also have pioneeredartificial intelligence (AI) software that dramatically boosts the detection rate of cancerous and precancerous polyps to more than 90%. A dedicated certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) or anesthesia professional will monitor you closely throughout the procedure. Your physician will go over the procedure again with you, and if all questions have been answered, will give you medications to achieve a conscious sedation. Polyps, which have the potential to become colon cancers, can be detected and removed during your exam, potentially eliminating the need for surgery and prolonging life. A colonoscopy enables the physician to see inflamed tissue, abnormal growths, ulcers, bleeding and muscle spasms. For more information or to schedule a colorectal screening appointment, please call 844-824-2656. If you have had previous colonoscopies, your prior experience may also help determine the prep drink you will use to safely and effectively clear out your colon in preparation for your colonoscopy. A colonoscopy usually takes up to 30 minutes to complete but may be prolonged if abnormal growths are found. Patients who do not require an urgent visit will be rescheduled for a telehealth visit (see below). Address: 1500 Park Central Drive, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129. Family history:People are at higher risk if they have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps in a first-degree relative, such as a parent, sibling or child. Your abdomen may be a little sore for a while, and you may feel bloating or cramping right after the procedure because of air introduced into your colon during the test. Male, Type of Appointment Schedule an appointment. Both routine and urgent appointments should be scheduled during regular office hours. UCHealth offers a full array of laboratory services and lab testing at our facilities across the Colorado Front Range. The day before your procedure you will have to avoid solid food and only drink clear liquids. , which is cancer in the colon or rectum. Even fast walking and climbing stairs can help lower your risk. If something abnormal is found, the doctor can use the colonoscope to collect a sample of the tissue for biopsy. A healthy lifestyle may help to lower your risk for colorectal cancer. . FOBT and FIT are simple self-administered tests that can be sent to a lab. Dr. Khurram Khan, MD - General Surgery Specialist in Colorado Springs To schedule a procedure at this location, contact our Arapahoe in Littleton group at 303-722-8987. Talk with your provider before you take calcium supplements. If your regular physician is not available, you can rest assured that arrangements will be made to meet your specific needs and that you will receive the care that your condition requires. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best. Search below to find a doctor with that skillset. Diagnosis and treatment can effectively reduce the risk of recurrence and subsequent cancer progression. We ask that you have a ride waiting for you during your office visit to ensure safety on the drive home. We provide a full scope of treatment options including loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), laser therapy, cryosurgery, and electrocauterization. This test looks for polyps or other abnormal areas that can be removed and sent to a lab for testing. PENRAD Imaging is the leading imaging provider in the Pikes Peak region. Choose ProviderFirst AvailableDr. Other rare risks include a reaction to the sedatives used or aggravation of heart or lung diseases. Discover the most common food allergens and their symptoms. Flu symptoms (fever, chills, body aches, etc.). All screening tests help to find colorectal cancers before symptoms develop. Your doctor can provide pain medication to make your recovery more comfortable. It also is one of the most avoidable types of cancer. Propensity for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: more evidence for ethnic susceptibility. View restrictions. R. Christopher Harmon, Dina Tiniakos, Curtis K. Argo. focus is on you. With rare exceptions, most patients can resume a normal diet immediately afterwards. What Are the Best Foods for Ulcerative Colitis? In many cases, polyps can be removed during your colonoscopy, unless they are too large, in which case they may require surgery. Learn about the warning signs and symptoms to look out for. Let us know if this information is out of date or incorrect. Colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Are you wondering if you might be pregnant? If you speak a language other than English, assistance services, free of change are available to you in the following languages: Espaol, , Ting Vit, , Tagalog. Polyps can be benign, pre-malignant or cancerous and they can vary in size and shape. Polyps and other benign growths of the lower genital tract. You will go home with a copy of your procedure report, and your referring physician will receive a copy in the mail usually within one week. Learn about the symptoms, causes and treatment options in the chronic fatigue syndrome condition guide at U.S. News and World Report. Experts dont know if some vegetables or fruits might be better than others in lowering risk, so it's best to eat a variety. Following your colonoscopy, you will need to allow yourself time to recover from the sedation and you will likely need to rest and recharge after the previous days fasting and preparation. We have answers. Please call immediately if after the procedure you develop fever, significant pain, or bleeding. You will also need to arrive early for your procedure so that you can receive sedation. Skip to content. Billing & pricing; . are growths on the inside surface of the colon, or large intestine. Gastroenterology Association of Colorado Springs and our top-ranked outpatient endoscopy center, Pikes Peak Endoscopy, offer one of the most comprehensive programs in Colorado to diagnose and treat the full spectrum of gastrointestinal (GI) diseases and disorders. Drinking a lot of alcohol: Those who consume a lot of alcohol are more likely to get colorectal cancer. While it is a common procedure for patients of that age, as with all procedures, there are possible complications that can be serious. If so, please contact your physicians office and inform them that a referral is required. View a video of a colonoscopy procedure. University of Colorado Complex Colposcopy Clinic, Womens Sexual Health Consultation Service, University of Colorado Vaginitis & Vulvitis Clinic, University of Colorado Pelvic Pain Clinic. A colonoscopy is screening at its peak, so if you receive positive test results back from other screening tests that are used to help detect colorectal cancer such as a stool test, , multi-targeted stool DNA test or computerized tomography (CT) colonography a colonoscopy will be used as a. usually wear off within 30 minutes once your colonoscopy has been completed and your IV has been removed. You can always purchase the items for prep yourself, but why not make it easy, pick it all up in one place and get a tote bag as a bonus! Chronic gallbladder inflammationChronic inflammation of the gallbladder is usually caused by the creation of gallstones but can also be related to cancer, infection or a disorder of the bile duct, which carries bile from the gallbladder to the liver. Colon Screening | Colonoscopy - Home | UCI Health A colonoscopy does require some advance preparation to cleanse the bowel, but the procedure is relatively simple, usually painless and performed on an out-patient basis. University of Colorado OB-GYN 20122022 | Terms of use | Privacy Policy| Website by Vanguard Communications. Limiting red and processed meats: Limit beef, pork, sausage, hot dogs, deli meats and bacon in your diet. Scheduling: (719) 785-9000; Toll Free: More Info. Request an Appointment MenuMenu Procedures Colonoscopy What is a Colonoscopy? Living with hemorrhoids can be excruciating. Due tothe coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we are implementingtemporary measures to ensure patient safety. Qualifications and experience Specialties to determine accurate information about your https://www.uchealth.org/provider/thomas-e-meister-internal-medicine-gastroenterology/ Category: Medical Show Health An IV catheter will be placed in an arm or hand vein. General Gastroenterology, Advanced Endoscopic Interventional . Still, most people with colorectal cancer dont have a family history of the disease. Polyps can be benign, pre-malignant or cancerous and they can vary in size and shape. His office accepts new patients. Men and women beginning at age 45 should follow one of these regimens: People should begin screening earlier and more often if they have these colorectal cancer risk factors: Several methods are used to detect colorectal cancers, including: In addition to developing AI technologyto improve polyp detection rates, UCI Health experts also offer "underwater" colonoscopies, in which water is used instead of air to expand the large intestine for superior visualization. He also specializes in infections and diseases of the female genital tract. Getting enough calcium in your diet: Some studies have found that higher calcium intake may lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Provider Search | Centura Health | Schedule Primary Care Polyps typically dont cause any symptoms. Once you are in your private recovery room post-procedure, you will be monitored for an hour or two until the effects of any medication have worn off. Access your medical records online, anytime. If you have or need to schedule an appointment: . However, other research has found that more calcium may raise the risk of prostate cancer in men. Our leading edge in-office treatment relieves pain with ease, and in just one visit. Men and women beginning at age 45 should follow one of these regimens: An annual stool test An imaging test or a sigmoidoscopy every five years A colonoscopy every 10 years We combine traditional GI medicine alongside healthy lifestyle methods. Primary Care Locations Appointment Information Appointments Call: 513-475-8001 Pleasecontact our officeor notify our staff at check-in if you are experiencing any of the following: Patients with symptomswho require an urgent visitwill need to wear a mask during an in-person appointment. Schedule your appointment today. A dedicated certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) or anesthesia professional will monitor you closely throughout the procedure. Provides clear information and answers questions in a way patients understand. Schedule Appointment Primary care New and existing patients can schedule an appointment with a primary care provider online. Your vital signs will be monitored, and you may be given a mild sedative to relax you and reduce pain. Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease: Those who have an inflamed lining of the colon, or inflammatory bowel disease, caused by Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease have a greater risk for colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy can be performed as a screening tool for colorectal cancer, which is cancer in the colon or rectum. However, it's a good idea to plan ahead when scheduling physicals and regular check-ups. Colorado Springs, CO 80918. Our Complex Colposcopy Clinic is expertly equipped to diagnose and treat these conditions. Back pain can disrupt your daily life, but with a few tips and tricks, you can lead a healthier and pain-free life. Spends appropriate amount of time with patient and provides thorough examinations. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45, and continue regular colorectal cancer screening through the age of 75. Cold symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose, shortness of breath). . However, its a good idea to plan ahead when scheduling physicals and regular check-ups. 1263 Lake Plaza Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80906. Our services utilize state-of-the-art equipment staffed with sub-specialty, fellowship-trained radiologists who received their training at the best medical schools in the nation. Polyps are commonly seen during colonoscopy and your physician employs a variety of techniques to biopsy and remove these lesions during your exam. Supplements are a natural way to support your wellness journey and help rid you of your gut issues and achieve your health goals. COVID-19 CDC Info UC Health Updates. Considering that a colonoscopy can literally add years to your life, we hope you agree the time it requires is time well spent! Tom Meister, MDDr. This type of cancer is much easier to treat when detected early. Thank you for your collaboration in keeping our community healthy, and remember we are here for you! We combine traditional GI medicine alongside healthy lifestyle methods. This special must be mentioned at time of scheduling. My UC Health gives you access to portions of your electronic medical record (EMR) on a secure server. GACS is like no other. Colon cancer is currently the second leading cause of all cancer-related deaths in the U.S. Should you need to cancel an appointment, please provide at least 24 hours advance notice. Our staff will make sure you are comfortable with the preparation steps for your colonoscopy and will help plan a schedule that is easy for you to follow. The team at University of Colorado OB-GYN. This includes: Being physically active: Getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week can reduce your risk for colorectal cancer. The indications for this procedure are many, including evaluation of gastrointestinal bleeding, pain, diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease and very commonly, to evaluate for colon polyps or colon cancer. You will be completely sedated and should experience no pain during your colonoscopy. Precancerous lesions, genital warts and other issues caused by HPV may be identified during a routine exam. Obesity: Colorectal cancer is more common in people who are very overweight, and this is more true for men. That is why colonoscopy is considered the gold standard of colorectal cancer testing. Laboratory Testing & Diagnosis | Colorado - UCHealth - Live Extraordinary We haveseven locations throughout the region with a team of experts using the latest technology to provide unparalleled imaging services to our patients. Dr. Fraser's practices cervical dysplasia, contraception, peri- and menopause & general ob-gyn. Type 2 diabetes: Those with type 2 diabetes are more likely to get colorectal cancer. The physician look inside your entire large intestine. The colonoscopy is only a portion of the experience, however, and prep time and recovery time should also be factored in. The colonoscopy procedure itself typically takes less than an hour, and in some cases may take only 15-30 minutes. Gastroenterology Associates of Colorado Springs (GACS) is a team of board-certified gastroenterologists and licensed nurse practitioners specializing in all aspects of GI disease. Colorectal screening can often find cancer early, before it has spread, often making it easier to treat. They most commonly see patients with: The OB-GYNs at CU offer treatment of abnormal pap tests using the most up-to-date testing and guidelines. Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat digestive disorders, such as stomach pain, ulcers, reflux, constipation and Crohn's disease. 17230 Jackson Creek . Many patients have asked about performing an enema before the procedure instead of taking our prep drink. This test helps identify abnormal DNA shed in stool from polyps or cancer and looks for hidden or occult blood in the stool. Your choice depends on personal preferences and goals. Your doctor can provide pain medication to make your recovery more comfortable. Colon polyps are growths on the inside surface of the colon, or large intestine. PENRAD @ Broadmoor Area Centura Neighborhood Health Center. Call our experienced UCI Health colorectal diseases team today at 844-824-2656 to schedule your colorectal cancer screening test. My Health Connection; Schedule appointment; Find a doctor; Find a location; Find a specialty; Insurance accepted; Billing & pricing; Resources.