Colonoscopy Screening
To schedule a colonoscopy, please call 317.214.5468, dial option 2 or fill out the form below to have one of our scheduling coordinators contact you.
Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the US, yet it is one of the most preventable. It is highly treatable and is often curable when caught early. At Riverview Health, our team of highly skilled experts are trained in evaluating growths (polyps) and bleeding in the colon.
Who should be screened?
Colorectal cancer screening is recommended for adults aged 45 to 75, regardless of gender. (Screening after age 75 years is individualized). Patients with a first degree relative (parent, brother, sister) or multiple 2 degree relatives (grandparent, aunt, uncle) with colon cancer should be screened at age 40 or 10 years prior to the relative’s cancer diagnosis.
The risk of developing colon cancer is slightly higher for men (1 in 23) than for women (1 in 25). It's crucial to note that the incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer are disproportionately higher among Black Americans. Regular screenings play a vital role in early detection and reducing this health disparity.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that examines the inside of the large intestine. During this procedure, a flexible, lighted tube equipped with a tiny camera is gently inserted into the rectum. This allows the doctor to visualize the entire colon, identify and remove any abnormal growths called polyps, which can potentially develop into cancer. Colonoscopies typically require bowel preparation and are usually performed in a hospital or outpatient setting with the use of sedation. The American Cancer Society recommends undergoing a colonoscopy every 10 years for most adults.
Conditions We Treat
- Colon polyps
- Colorectal cancer
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
Going Behind the Scenes: Ryan Ahlwardt Prepares for His Colonoscopy
Watch Fox59 host Ryan Ahlwardt go behind the scenes as he prepares for his first colonoscopy. In this candid and informative segment, Ryan sits down with Dr. Imler to talk through the process, clear up common misconceptions, and highlight why colorectal screenings are so important for long-term health. It’s an honest conversation aimed at educating, reassuring, and encouraging viewers to take proactive steps for their health.
The Importance of Screening for Colon Cancer
We are proud to share that our Gastroenterologist, Dr. Imler, was recently featured on Fox59 News. In this insightful interview, Dr. Imler highlights the critical importance of regular colon cancer screenings and offers practical guidance on how to maintain a healthy diet to reduce your risk.
What to Expect During a Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a routine medical procedure that allows a doctor to examine the lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum) using a thin, flexible tube with a camera. It is commonly performed as a preventive screening for colorectal cancer or to investigate symptoms such as abdominal pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits. Although the preparation beforehand involves cleansing the colon and can be the most challenging part, the procedure itself is typically quick and done under sedation to ensure comfort. In this video, our Gastroenterologist Dr.Imler shares what to expect during colonoscopy and the preparations.
Schedule a Colonoscopy
Submit the below form to schedule your colonoscopy screening and one of our staff members will contact you within 2 business days.