Colonoscopy

Colon cancer is often preventable with a screening called colonoscopy. Though colon cancer is rare in children, Israel Kochin M.D. may recommend a colonoscopy to look for signs of colon cancer if your child has unusual symptoms. At his practice in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, and the Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens, New York, Dr. Kochin can help find the underlying cause of your child’s gastrointestinal issue. Call the nearest office or book an appointment online today to learn more.

What is a colonoscopy? 

A colonoscopy is a screening (diagnostic test) that looks for unusual symptoms or signs of colon cancer. This test can help detect colon cancer even in its early stages (precancerous growths). 

Colon cancer is rare in children, occurring only in about one hundred children in the U.S. each year. When your child has signs of colon cancer, it’s vital to seek an evaluation. 

As children grow and develop, their bodies change in unique ways. The benefit of having a pediatric gastroenterologist gives you an opportunity to watch over your child’s development, learn how to prevent colon cancer, and monitor their gastrointestinal health from the first days of their lives. 

When should my child have a colonoscopy?

Israel Kochin M.D. may recommend a colonoscopy after a comprehensive physical exam, medical history review, and discussion with you about your child’s symptoms. 

Signs and symptoms of pediatric colon cancer include: 

• A lump in the abdomen
• Abdominal pain 
• Cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite 
• Weight loss 
• Extreme tiredness 
• Bleeding from the rectum
• Bloody stools
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• General weakness

If you have a family history of colon cancer or your child had inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the past, your child may need regular screenings. Dr. Kochin can recommend a screening schedule that’s best for your child.

How should I prepare my child for a colonoscopy?

Dr. Kochin may give you some care instructions before your child has a colonoscopy. This screening usually requires your child to empty their bowels the day before their test. They should avoid any beverages with blue, purple, or red dyes.

Your child can have the following liquids:

• Water
• Fat-free bouillon
• Strained fruit juices
• Gatorade
• Gelatin (green or yellow)

Prior to a colonoscopy, you should discuss any medications or supplements your child is taking. Dr. Kochin may recommend you temporarily stop your child’s medication regimen for a few days. 

Your child may need to use a laxative the night before their colonoscopy to clean out their bowels so Dr. Kochin can get a better look at their gastrointestinal tract. 

How does a colonoscopy work?

During a colonoscopy, your child lies flat on their left side while Dr. Kochin inserts a colonoscope into your child’s rectum, moving it into the colon. 

The camera inside the scope sends images to a nearby screen that helps Dr. Kochin find any abnormal growths (colon polyps) and provide other treatments as necessary to help alleviate your child’s symptoms. 

To get your child evaluated for colon cancer and schedule a colonoscopy, call the nearest office of Israel Kochin M.D. or book an appointment online today.