What is Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy or coloscopy is the endoscopic examination of the large bowel and the distal part of the small bowel with a CCD camera or a fiber optic camera on a flexible tube passed through the anus.
Colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inside of the colon (large intestine) and rectum. It involves using a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope, which has a small camera and light attached to it, to view the inside of the colon.
Colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure offered by MGM Hospital CBD to examine the lining of the colon (large intestine) using a colonoscope, which is a long, flexible tube with a camera and light attached to it.

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Symptoms

Reasons to have a colonoscopy are:

  • Bleeding from the rectum.
  • Blood in the stools.
  • Pus or mucus in the stools.
  • Unexplained abdominal pain.
  • Changes in bowel habits such as unexplained and long-lasting diarrhoea.
  • Screening and surveillance for colorectal cancer.

Risks

Factors that increase the risk of developing colonoscopy include:

  • A reaction to the sedative used during the exam
  • Bleeding from the site where a tissue sample (biopsy) was taken or a polyp or other abnormal tissue was removed
  • A tear in the colon or rectum wall (perforation)

Prevention

colonoscopy can be prevented by adopting the following means:

  • Increasing physical activity
  • Keeping a healthy weight
  • Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco.
  • Get regular exercise
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Quit smoking
  • Get screened

Steps of Colonoscopy

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Here are the general steps involved in a colonoscopy procedure:

  • Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient is instructed to empty their colon by following a special diet and taking laxatives. This is important to ensure that the colon is clear and the doctor can see any abnormalities during the procedure.

  • Sedation: The patient is given sedation to help them relax and minimize discomfort during the procedure.

  • Insertion of Colonoscope: The doctor inserts the colonoscope through the rectum and into the colon. The colonoscope is a long, flexible tube that has a light and a camera on the end.

  • Visualization of Colon: As the doctor slowly advances the colonoscope, they view the inside of the colon on a video monitor. Air is sometimes introduced into the colon to help the doctor see better.

  • Biopsy or Removal of Abnormalities: If the doctor sees any abnormal tissue, such as polyps or suspicious areas, they may take a biopsy or remove the tissue for further examination.

  • Completion of Procedure: Once the doctor has examined the entire colon and rectum, the colonoscope is slowly withdrawn.

  • Recovery: The patient is monitored for a short time after the procedure to ensure they are recovering well. They may experience some cramping or bloating, but these symptoms usually subside quickly.

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What care should be taken after colonoscopy ?

Rest and Hydrate: After the procedure, you may feel groggy or tired. Take the rest of the day off from work or other activities, and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Diet: Your healthcare provider may advise you to eat a light diet for the first few days after the procedure. Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods that may irritate your colon. Gradually resume your normal diet as your bowel movements return to normal.

Medication: If you were given sedation during the colonoscopy, you should not drive or operate heavy machinery for the rest of the day. Also, follow any instructions given to you about taking medication.

Watch for Complications: In rare cases, complications can occur after a colonoscopy, such as bleeding or perforation of the colon. If you experience severe abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, fever, or other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Follow-Up: Your healthcare provider may advise you to return for a follow-up appointment to discuss the results of the colonoscopy and any further treatment that may be needed.

Computed tomography (CT)

Computed tomography (CT) colonography or virtual colonoscopy uses special x-ray equipment to examine the large intestine for cancer and growths

X-rays

most other screening tests, the test uses X-rays to create pictures of the colon and rectum. The amount of radiation is small.

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