How Long Does It Take to Get Colonoscopy Results

The most common question we hear from patients is: how long does it take to get colonoscopy results? For most patients, whether you choose a traditional or a virtual colonoscopy in Beverly Hills or Santa Monica, CA, preliminary results are available on the day of your exam. The core difference between the two procedures is that virtual colonoscopy is a non-invasive, more comfortable approach with a quicker recovery time. Learn why it could be the right choice as you consider your colorectal screening options. 

Below, we walk through the process from timing to follow-up care, so you know exactly what to expect.

When Do I Get My Colonoscopy Results?

For patients who opt for a virtual colonoscopy at LSG Imaging, we’ll review your preliminary findings immediately following your procedure. One of our radiologists will review the high-resolution CT data for polyps or abnormalities, and typically share the findings with you before you leave. If your exam is clear, meaning we identify no polyps or areas of concern, you do not need to schedule a follow-up appointment or screening for at least five years.

If we do find a significant polyp during the exam, you will need a traditional colonoscopy for further analysis and possible removal. We will do our best to refer you to a local gastroenterologist for a same-day appointment, should you so desire, so you won’t need to do the prep a second time. However, for a majority of our virtual colonoscopy patients (95%), this will not be required. 

Biopsy results from a traditional colonoscopy generally take about a week. 

Risk with Traditional Colonoscopy 

While generally considered low-risk and safe, colon perforation can occur in roughly 1 in 500 traditional colonoscopies. Being entirely non-invasive, this risk is essentially eliminated with a virtual colonoscopy. 

What If My Colonoscopy Shows Abnormalities? 

Finding an abnormality during a colonoscopy in Beverly Hills or Santa Monica, CA, whether traditional or virtual, is a positive outcome rather than a cause for alarm. It means we identified something worth addressing before it had a chance to progress.

When one of our radiologists identifies an abnormality, he’ll take the time to walk you through the findings, what the images show, and what your next steps are.

What If Signs of Cancer Show Up in My Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy, whether virtual or traditional, is one of the most effective tools we have for identifying colorectal cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages. A visual finding does not confirm a diagnosis; that determination comes from the pathology report.

For many patients, a virtual colonoscopy serves as a powerful preventative tool, offering a detailed map of the colon without the need for sedation or an invasive scope. A traditional colonoscope sometimes cannot reach the full length of a colon, leaving portions of it unexamined; this is called an incomplete colonoscopy. Conversely, a virtual colonoscopy is almost always able to capture high resolution images of the patient’s entire colon. LSG Imaging’s proven success with virtual colorectal screenings means we provide our patients with the same peace of mind and early warning detection as would a traditional colonoscopy.

When colorectal cancer is detected at a localized stage, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90%. This is why staying current with your colonoscopy screening schedule matters so much. Early detection is the key to achieving more positive outcomes.

What Do I Do After I Get My Colonoscopy Results?

After you complete your virtual colonoscopy, the results will determine whether you will have a routine follow-up in five years, or need to undergo a traditional colonoscopy. 

Post-Procedure Recovery: Traditional vs. Virtual Colonoscopy

Traditional Colonoscopy Recovery

Because a traditional colonoscopy requires sedation, you will need to be chaperoned by a driver after the examination, as your coordination and judgment may be affected for several hours post-sedation. 

Contact your doctor’s office immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy rectal bleeding, or a fever above 100°F after your procedure.

Virtual Colonoscopy Recovery

One of the major advantages of a Beverly Hills or Santa Monica, CA, virtual colonoscopy at LSG Imaging is the immediate return to normal activities. Since no sedation is required, patients are able to drive themselves home and return to work or their daily activities right after their examination. There’s also no need to modify your diet. This convenience makes virtual colonoscopy an appealing option if you are seeking a comfortable and efficient colon screening with minimal disruption.

Schedule a Virtual Colonoscopy in Beverly Hills or Santa Monica, CA

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when it is caught early. LSG Imaging is here to provide the highest standard of care and help you move forward with a virtual colonoscopy in Beverly Hills or Santa Monica, CA. No referral is required. Get the confirmation you need about your colon health and the peace of mind that comes with clear answers.

Contact Us at our Beverly Hills office at 310-859-8104, or in Santa Monica at (310) 394-2761 to book your virtual colonoscopy and speak with our scheduling team. We’ll be happy to provide more information and answer questions like “How long does it take to get colonoscopy results?”, and so on.