Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is the visual examination of the large intestine (colon) and end part of small bowel (ileum) using a lighted, flexible video endoscope. a long, flexible (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the entire colon.

Who needs colonoscopy

Patients who have diarrhea, constipation or recent change in bowel habits, bleeding in stools should undergo colonoscopy. Also those having weight loss, anemia, family history of colon cancer needs to undergo this test. As in endoscopy, colonoscopy is also best to visualize large bowel directly. Colonoscopy is also used in patients with abnormal barium, ultrasonography or ct scan having inflamed or thickened bowel loops.

Who needs colonoscopy Patients who have diarrhea, constipation or recent change in bowel habits, bleeding in stools should undergo colonoscopy. Also those having weight loss, anemia, family history of colon cancer needs to undergo this test. As in endoscopy, colonoscopy is also best to visualize large bowel directly. Colonoscopy is also used in patients with abnormal barium, ultrasonography or ct scan having inflamed or thickened bowel loops.

Preparation

To obtain clear view, the colon must be clean and free of stool. Any residue in your colon may miss the pathology. Usually patient should not eat solid food the day before the exam and drinks only clear liquids day before the exam. Avoid red liquids, which can be confused with blood during the colonoscopy. The patient receives laxatives and enemas or drinking a medicinal solution which flushes the colon by number of loose motions. Inform your doctor of your medications if you have diabetes, high blood pressure or heart problems or if you take medications causing blood thinner or supplements that contain iron.

Procedure

Colonoscopy is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Usually patient is conscious but anxious patient may require sedation. Digital exam of the anus and rectum is performed. The flexible colonoscope is inserted through the anus and advanced gently in the colon. Gentle air pressure may be fed into your bowel to inflate your digestive tract. Other instruments can be passed through the endoscope to perform additional procedures if necessary like biopsy forcep, cautery, snare for polypectomy etc. During whole of the examination, our doctor record videos and images for later examination, reports. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll be taken to a recovery area to sit or lie quietly after your endoscopy. You may stay for an hour or so.

Side effects

You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the exam. A colonoscopy poses few risks. A tear in the colon or rectum wall (perforation) or sedation related complications may occur. Another serious complication is excessive bleeding, especially with the removal of large polyp. These complications may require hospitalization and surgery. Patients who have received sedation should not drive or operate machines and must be in accompany for 12 hours.

Alternative test/option

Alternative tests to colonoscopy include a barium enema or a CT colonoscopy that image the colon and allow only pathology to see. It is only for diagnosis purpose as they do not allow direct viewing of the colon, removal of polyps, or the completion of biopsies.