What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is an exam that gives the physician the ability to observe the large intestine, which includes the rectum and colon. This exam can locate ailments, including colon polyps, bleeding, inflammation, tumors and ulcers, reports WebMD.

A thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope is used to look at the colon during the procedure. It ranges in length from 48 inches to 72 inches. The end of the colonoscope has a tiny video camera attached to it to take photos or videos of the large intestine. During a colonoscopy a sample or biopsy may be taken. Any irregular growths may be extracted, notes WebMD.