What is a colonoscopy?

A: A colonoscopy is a test in which a doctor views the inside of your colon and rectum (large intestine).  During the exam, a colonoscope - a long flexible tube about the thickness of a finger - is inserted into your rectum.  A tiny video camera at its tip allows your doctor to view the inside of your colon on a TV monitor. 

Colonoscopy is used to look for colon cancer or growths such as polyps which could develop into colon cancer.  If any abnormality is found during colonoscopy, a biopsy is taken and sent for microscopic examination.  Click here to view a colonoscopy.

Like all cancers, colon cancer is much more likely to be cured if it is detected early and treated promptly.

At times your doctor may fail to perform, or refer you to another doctor to perform, a colonoscopy, despite signs and symptoms of colon cancer.  At other times, the doctor performing the colonoscopy may fail to biopsy abnormal tissue seen at the time of the biopsy or to take appropriate action to diagnose your colon cancer.  In these situations, you may be the victim of medical malpractice.

If you suspect that you are the victim of medical malpractice, you may call us at 412-471-4300 or toll free at 800-350-6161, or email us.  At Berger & Lagnese, we specialize in medical malpractice cases in Pennsylvani, including Pittsburgh, Greensburg, Uniontown, Beaver, Erie and Washington PA.  Our lawyers and doctor will find out what happened during your medical care.  There is no cost to you.