Colonoscopy
What is Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy involves examining the entire large bowel using a tool called a colonoscope, which is similar to a sigmoidoscope but slightly longer. The camera sends images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to look for any abnormal areas in the rectum or bowel that may indicate cancer. The entire large bowel must be empty during a colonoscopy. Therefore, a special diet is necessary for a few days before the procedure, and a powerful laxative needs to be taken on the morning of or the day before the examination, depending on the test’s timing.What Conditions Can Be Diagnosed During a Colonoscopy?
Some people have a colonoscopy because they’re experiencing symptoms that their doctor needs to investigate further. A colonoscopy provides a clear view of the large intestine, which can help doctors figure out what’s causing symptoms like:
- Unexplained bleeding or discharge from the rectum
- Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, constipation, or incontinence
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Unexpected weight reduction in children or no weight increase at all
During a colonoscopy, doctors can also take a tissue sample (biopsy) to examine under a microscope and make a diagnosis. This procedure can help diagnose conditions like:
- Chronic colitis (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
- Intestinal ischemia and ischaemic colitis
- Diverticulosis and diverticulitis
- Ulcers and perforations
- Large bowel obstructions
- Colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer
Remember, a colonoscopy is a valuable tool for identifying and treating digestive issues. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about whether a colonoscopy is right for you.
Procedure of Colonoscopy
Before a colonoscopy, it is necessary to empty your colon to ensure no residue could obstruct the view of your colon and rectum during the exam.
During a colonoscopy, a sedative is usually given through an injection, but sometimes a gas called Entonox may be used instead. Throughout the procedure, the colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and gradually advanced along the entire length of the large intestine. This is generally not painful but may cause discomfort. The patient needs to start by lying on their left side and then change positions during the procedure to facilitate the movement of the camera through the bends and loops in the colonoscope.
Typically, a colonoscopy takes approximately 20-30 minutes to perform, and most individuals can be discharged once the sedative’s effects have worn off. If polyps need to be removed, the procedure might take longer, depending on the type of polyp.
Following the colonoscopy, recovering from the sedative’s effects is necessary before leaving. Since it is not permitted to drive for 24 hours after receiving a sedative, transportation arrangements will be necessary. For older individuals, it is advisable to have someone with them for 24 hours after the procedure.
In a small percentage of individuals, navigating the colonoscope around the entire colon may not be feasible, and alternative tests such as CT colonography may be required. However, a colonoscopy is widely considered the standard procedure for examining the large intestine.
What are the Risks of Colonoscopy?
While colonoscopies are generally safe, there are some potential risks to be aware of:
- A tear in the colon wall can be serious.
- Excessive bleeding after tissue removal.
- Infection that may require antibiotic treatment.
- Adverse effects of the anaesthetic used in the treatment.
- Abdominal discomfort.
- Continuous diarrhoea.
- Alterations in bowel patterns.
- Significant family background of bowel cancer.
Cost of Colonoscopy
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