Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is the internal examination of the colon and rectum by a colonoscope (a long, flexible tube about half an inch in diameter with a camera attached to the end), to evaluate symptoms of the colon (eg. Rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits and persistent abdominal pain), or to screen asymptomatic individuals who are at risk of colon cancer.
It can detect ulcers, inflammed tissue and abnormal growths in the walls of the colon.
Preparing For The Colonoscopy
For successful visualization of the colon and rectum, the bowel must be clean and free of accumulated faeces. It is thus very important that you follow the instructions for preparing your bowel, given by your doctor. Without proper preparation, the colonoscopy may not be successful and may have to be repeated.
Your doctor will give you some form of oral laxative preparation to take the night preceeding the colonscopic examination. You can expect to pass large amounts of loose stools as a result, so staying at home and having easy access to the toilet would be a good idea.
The Colonoscopy
You will be given a pain reliever and some sedation, so that you will be relaxed and comfortable. You may be asleep during the colonoscopy or be unable to remember it following the procedure. You will be made to lie on your side with your knees drawn up towards your chest, and your doctor will pass the well lubricated colonoscope into your anus, gently guiding it through the rectum and into the colon. Small amounts of air will be pumped in to expand the colon for proper visualization of the colon walls.
Your doctor can remove growths, called polyps during the colonoscopy, and later send it to the laboratory to test for signs of cancer. Polyps are common and usually benign, however, most colorectal cancers begin as polyps, so they should always be tested.
Biopsies can also be taken from abnormal looking tissues in the walls of the colon. If bleeding occurs following biopsy or removal of polyps, it can be stopped via diathermy (an electrical probe) passed through the colonscope.
The entire procedure lasts about 30 minutes to an hour.
Following The Colonoscopy
You may be required to remain at the clinic for 1 to 2 hours after the procedure to allow time for the sedative to wear off. Cramping, bloating and passing of flatus (gas) is common following a colonoscope due to the air pumped in during the procedure.
You should contact your doctor if you have any of the following rare side effects:
• fever
• severe abdominal pain
• blood in your stools
The article above is meant to provide general information and does not replace a doctor's consultation.
Please see your doctor for professional advice.