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What is a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a procedure in which the large intestine and the colon are examined. The examination is carried out by using an endoscopic instrument known as a colonoscope. The instrument is a long thin tube with a tiny camera attached to it. During colonoscopy your doctor can diagnose and treat diseases like ulcers, abnormal growths, inflamed tissues and so on, without the need for a major operation.
How to be prepared for a Colonoscopy?
- Inform the doctor about your medical conditions that require attention, such as:
- Heart condition
- Lung condition
- Diabetes
- Allergy to any medication
- Pregnancy
- Antibiotics may be required in the following conditions:
- If the patient has an artificial heart valve
- If the patient requires antibiotics before a surgical or a dental procedure for certain medical reasons
- The doctor may give instructions on diet and fluid restrictions. You may be required to take laxatives orally to clean out the colon.
- Enemas are usually given to clean out your bowels.
How is a Colonoscopy performed?
The patient is asked to lie on the side on the examining table. A colonoscope is inserted from the anus, through the rectum and moved to the large intestine. The colonoscope transmits images of the colon as it bends and moves around the curves of the colon. The patient may be required to change positions so that the doctor can move the colonoscope. Air is also blown into the colon to expand the colon, which helps the doctor to see and examine clearly. You may experience mild cramps during the colonoscopy.
When the procedure is completed, the colonoscope is withdrawn slowly while the bowel lining is carefully examined.
Anything abnormal that is observed during the colonoscopy is removed for biopsy.
Polyps are also identified and removed.
Can any diseases be treated during the Colonoscopy?
- Medicine is injected around wounds and diverticula that are bleeding.
Alternatively, heat is applied to cauterize the wounds.
- A lasso-like device removes cancerous polyps
- With the help of a balloon, strictures can be dilated
Duration of procedure/surgery:Approximately 30 - 60 minutes
Days admitted:None. Colonoscopy is done on an outpatient basis.
Recovery:The patient is kept for some time in a recovery room for observation.
As an outpatient, you can go home the same day. Cramping, bloating, nausea, and drowsiness are some of the symptoms that are experienced for some time after a colonoscopy. The doctor will give you a follow-up appointment upon discharge.
Risks:The following complications are possible in a colonoscopy:
- Cramps and abdominal swelling caused by the air that is blown into the colon during the colonoscopy
- Slight bleeding in the bowel movements if a biopsy is done during the colonoscopy
- Injury to the intestine that may cause bleeding and infection
- Allergic reaction and side effect of sedating medication used during the colonoscopy
After care:- Follow the doctor’s instructions on diet.
- Symptoms such as the following should be reported:
o Severe abdominal pain
o Fever
o Vomiting
o Bleeding from the anus
- Certain medications should be avoided if polyps were removed or if biopsies were taken.
Learn more about Colonoscopy