Colonoscopy is a form of endoscopy that is used to investigate conditions affecting the large intestines (colon). The instrument used for the study is known as a colonoscope. Apart from directly viewing lesions, the procedure can also be used to institute therapeutic interventions. Some of the conditions in which colonoscopy may be indicated include inflammatory bowel disease, polyps, colon cancer and ulcers among others. There are some important things on colonoscopy Morrilton AR residents need to know.
Screening is, without a doubt, the commonest reason as to why this procedure is prescribed. Persons who have a positive history of colonic tumors (especially among first degree relatives), should have the procedure performed regularly. This will provide an opportunity to make timely interventions in case precancerous lesions exist. If suspicious lesions are encountered, tissue specimens are taken to be studied further by a pathologist.
The procedure is a bit invasive with potential complications which requires that one prepares adequately. Cleaning the colon (colon prep) is the most important part at this stage. Traditionally this has been done by administering laxatives for one or two days and remaining on a liquid diet for the same duration of time. The practice has been changing, however, with the introduction of more effective laxatives that can be administered the night before the procedure.
The main types of liquid diet that one should use during the colon prep include tea, coffee, clear juices, water and gelatin. Drinks to be avoided are those that have a red, pink, or purple color such as grape juice and red wine among others. This is because, such drinks have the capability of staining the mucosal surface of the colon and changing its appearance. Expect increased bouts of hunger and diarrhea when on such a diet.
A medical history and a physical examination are often necessary before the test is performed. Your drug history is particularly important. This is because drugs such as aspirin and blood thinners have the potential to increase the risk of bleeding. The drugs should, therefore, be stopped two weeks before the investigation at the very latest. Cigarette smoking has the same effect and should also be stopped.
The colonoscope us usually inserted through the anal verge and pushed upwards slowly as the colon is examined. It is re-examined as it is withdrawn. Some discomfort may be experienced as the colonoscope is inserted into the colon. A sedative drug is usually administered to reduce this discomfort. If you feel abdominal cramping as well, breathe in deeply.
The entire exercise takes about an hour. Complicated cases may last a little longer. For a majority of centers, the investigation is done as a day case in an outpatient center or endoscopy unit. The only time that you have to spend at the facility is that required for the sedative to wear off. Adequate re-hydration is needed to replace the fluids lost during the preparation.
Colonoscopy is both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure. It can be performed on virtually anyone with very few complications if at all. The most common side effects include vomiting, dizziness and fever all of which can be easily managed. While a single test mat be adequate for most people, others require several of them.
Screening is, without a doubt, the commonest reason as to why this procedure is prescribed. Persons who have a positive history of colonic tumors (especially among first degree relatives), should have the procedure performed regularly. This will provide an opportunity to make timely interventions in case precancerous lesions exist. If suspicious lesions are encountered, tissue specimens are taken to be studied further by a pathologist.
The procedure is a bit invasive with potential complications which requires that one prepares adequately. Cleaning the colon (colon prep) is the most important part at this stage. Traditionally this has been done by administering laxatives for one or two days and remaining on a liquid diet for the same duration of time. The practice has been changing, however, with the introduction of more effective laxatives that can be administered the night before the procedure.
The main types of liquid diet that one should use during the colon prep include tea, coffee, clear juices, water and gelatin. Drinks to be avoided are those that have a red, pink, or purple color such as grape juice and red wine among others. This is because, such drinks have the capability of staining the mucosal surface of the colon and changing its appearance. Expect increased bouts of hunger and diarrhea when on such a diet.
A medical history and a physical examination are often necessary before the test is performed. Your drug history is particularly important. This is because drugs such as aspirin and blood thinners have the potential to increase the risk of bleeding. The drugs should, therefore, be stopped two weeks before the investigation at the very latest. Cigarette smoking has the same effect and should also be stopped.
The colonoscope us usually inserted through the anal verge and pushed upwards slowly as the colon is examined. It is re-examined as it is withdrawn. Some discomfort may be experienced as the colonoscope is inserted into the colon. A sedative drug is usually administered to reduce this discomfort. If you feel abdominal cramping as well, breathe in deeply.
The entire exercise takes about an hour. Complicated cases may last a little longer. For a majority of centers, the investigation is done as a day case in an outpatient center or endoscopy unit. The only time that you have to spend at the facility is that required for the sedative to wear off. Adequate re-hydration is needed to replace the fluids lost during the preparation.
Colonoscopy is both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure. It can be performed on virtually anyone with very few complications if at all. The most common side effects include vomiting, dizziness and fever all of which can be easily managed. While a single test mat be adequate for most people, others require several of them.
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