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What is Colonoscopy?
The colon is the final part of the digestive system, absorbing water to convert faeces into solid stools. Adult's large intestines are five feet long and consist of four parts: the ascending colon on the right side of the abdomen, the transverse colon on the left from the ascending colon, and the descending colon on the left side descending from the transverse colon, sigmoid colon connects the rectum to descending colon. The rectum and anus unite at the orifice for stool exit.
- A colonoscopy is a procedure to examine the large intestine, i.e., the colon and rectum, to diagnose changes in irritated or swollen tissues and cancer.
- It is done with a colonoscope, a long, flexible tube inserted into the rectum to observe changes.
- The procedure is associated with mild or no pain. Women after hysterectomy are at risk of having a painful experience.
- In addition to examining the colon and rectum, a colonoscope that is inserted may also help in cleaning the lining of the colon with a water jet.
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Get A Second OpinionIndications for Colonoscopy Screening May Include:
- Age: Individuals over 50 years old are typically recommended to undergo regular colonoscopy screenings as part of routine preventive care.
- Family History: Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps may require earlier or more frequent screenings.
- Personal Medical History: Individuals with a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, are often advised to have regular colonoscopies.
- Previous Findings: If a previous colonoscopy revealed polyps or abnormal findings, regular follow-up screenings may be necessary to monitor for recurrence or progression.
- Symptoms: Certain symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits (like persistent diarrhoea or constipation), unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain may prompt a colonoscopy to investigate potential underlying causes.
- Routine Screening: Some healthcare guidelines recommend routine colonoscopy screenings for the general population to detect and prevent colorectal cancer early.
What is Colonoscopy Screening:
Colonoscopy screening is used to look for early signs of cancer. Often, a routine screening colonoscopy is the initial procedure used by clinicians to diagnose colon cancer. During a colonoscopy, a gastroenterologist looks inside the colon with a flexible tube that has a camera at the end.
A sedative is administered before the treatment to help feel at ease and relaxed.
Colonoscopy is also used to diagnose and treat the following conditions:
- Tumours
- Polyps
- Bleeding in the GI tract.
- Narrow sections of the colon
- Diverticula
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Book an AppointmentWhat Do the Colonoscopy Procedure Steps Involve?
1. Importance of Preparation: Colonoscopy preparation is crucial for the success of the procedure. Healthcare practitioners provide specific instructions to ensure the large intestine is clear and clean for examination.
2. Appointment Day Requirements:
- Driver Requirement: Patients must have a responsible driver accompany them for the appointment, as the effects of anaesthesia can last up to two hours.
- Dietary Changes: A few days before the procedure, patients switch to a low-fibre diet, followed by a clear liquid diet on the final day.
- Laxative Use: In the afternoon or evening before the procedure, patients take a laxative mixture to help cleanse the bowels.
3. During the Colonoscopy:
- Anaesthesia: Sedatives and painkillers are administered via an IV line in the arm. Patients discuss anaesthetic options beforehand, which include conscious sedation or general anaesthesia.
- Procedure Overview: The colonoscope, equipped with tools for tissue sampling and minor procedures, is inserted through the anus and advanced through the colon to the small intestine.
- Monitoring and Pain Management: There should be no pain during the procedure due to anaesthesia, but patients may experience pressure or gas discomfort as the colonoscope moves.
4. Post-Procedure Recovery:
- Recovery Phase: After the procedure, patients spend about an hour in the medical centre to recover from anaesthesia. Vital signs are monitored, and medical staff discuss preliminary results once the patient is alert.
5. Potential Complications:
- Complications: Risks associated with colonoscopy include damage to the colon wall, bleeding from tissue removal, infections requiring medication, and uncommon reactions to anaesthesia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Colonoscopy is also used to diagnose and treat the following conditions:
- Tumours
- Polyps
- Bleeding in the GI tract
- Narrow sections of the colon
- Diverticula
The procedure is used to examine the large intestine, i.e., the colon and rectum, to diagnose changes in irritated or swollen tissues and cancer.
No, colonoscopy is not a surgery. It is a procedure done with a colonoscope, a long, flexible tube inserted into the rectum to observe changes.
If any abnormal tissue or polyps are found in the colon, the test result is considered to be positive, and there might be a need to consult an oncologist.
Individuals who have negative results from colonoscopy have a shallow risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Colonoscopy is not recommended for people aged 75 and above with medical issues that may result in more complications.
Individuals who need a colonoscopy include those with:
- History of Inflammatory bowel disease
- 45 years of age and never had screening before
- Hereditary conditions like familial adenomatous polyposis
- Family history of colorectal cancer
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