Colonoscopy is a procedure that is very useful in examining conditions affecting the colon (the large intestines). It is performed by inserting an instrument called a colonoscope through the anal verge. The instrument has camera at the front end that transmits images captured onto a monitor. If they need to undergo colonoscopy Conway AR residents need to understand a number of things beforehand.
A number of varied conditions can be diagnosed using this procedure. Tumors (both malignant and benign) are the commonest finding. Other conditions that are also quite common include enlarged prostate glands in men, polyps and bleeding ulcers (associated with inflammatory bowel disease). A typical candidate is an individual with a history of bleeding from the rectum. It is recommended that men above the age of 40 should undergo regular examination.
Apart from being useful making a diagnosis, the procedure can be used for a number of other interventions. For instance, when a bleeding ulcer is visualized, a sclerosing agent can be applied to the area to close the open vessels. A similarly effective intervention is what is referred to as cauterization. This involves the use of electric current to control bleeding. Polyps with a long stalk can be safely removed using a colonoscope.
Since this is an invasive procedure, there is a need for one to undergo adequate preparation. This helps minimize the risk of complications. Among the important things to be done is a determination of hemoglobin and platelet levels. If any of these parameters is lower than expected, then the risk of bleeding is high. Another important step during preparation is what is known as colon cleansing.
Colon cleansing is a process in which fecal material is removed from the intestines. This makes it possible to visualize any lesions found in the colon. The process is done by administering drugs known as laxatives whose main role is to increase gut motility. Whereas traditional laxatives worked in two to three days, newer agents work within a few hours.
One needs to modify their diet as part of the colon cleanse process. A diet rich in beverages such gelatin, coffee, clear juices and tea is recommended. These foods flow through the gut easily and help with cleaning it up. Ensure that you avoid taking colored juices which tend to stain the mucosal surface of the colon resulting in alternation of lesion appearance.
If no complications are encountered, the process takes 45 minutes to one hour. Sedation is usually administered to minimize the discomfort experienced as the scope is maneuvered through the gut. Taking a deep breath during the process is also helpful in relieving the discomfort. Note that you may pass wind several times as the scope moves through the colon.
You will be allowed home on the same day unless complications set in or if the sedation takes too long. Some centers retain patients for up to 24 hours to allow for observation. Some of the complications that may be encountered include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and rectal bleeding.
A number of varied conditions can be diagnosed using this procedure. Tumors (both malignant and benign) are the commonest finding. Other conditions that are also quite common include enlarged prostate glands in men, polyps and bleeding ulcers (associated with inflammatory bowel disease). A typical candidate is an individual with a history of bleeding from the rectum. It is recommended that men above the age of 40 should undergo regular examination.
Apart from being useful making a diagnosis, the procedure can be used for a number of other interventions. For instance, when a bleeding ulcer is visualized, a sclerosing agent can be applied to the area to close the open vessels. A similarly effective intervention is what is referred to as cauterization. This involves the use of electric current to control bleeding. Polyps with a long stalk can be safely removed using a colonoscope.
Since this is an invasive procedure, there is a need for one to undergo adequate preparation. This helps minimize the risk of complications. Among the important things to be done is a determination of hemoglobin and platelet levels. If any of these parameters is lower than expected, then the risk of bleeding is high. Another important step during preparation is what is known as colon cleansing.
Colon cleansing is a process in which fecal material is removed from the intestines. This makes it possible to visualize any lesions found in the colon. The process is done by administering drugs known as laxatives whose main role is to increase gut motility. Whereas traditional laxatives worked in two to three days, newer agents work within a few hours.
One needs to modify their diet as part of the colon cleanse process. A diet rich in beverages such gelatin, coffee, clear juices and tea is recommended. These foods flow through the gut easily and help with cleaning it up. Ensure that you avoid taking colored juices which tend to stain the mucosal surface of the colon resulting in alternation of lesion appearance.
If no complications are encountered, the process takes 45 minutes to one hour. Sedation is usually administered to minimize the discomfort experienced as the scope is maneuvered through the gut. Taking a deep breath during the process is also helpful in relieving the discomfort. Note that you may pass wind several times as the scope moves through the colon.
You will be allowed home on the same day unless complications set in or if the sedation takes too long. Some centers retain patients for up to 24 hours to allow for observation. Some of the complications that may be encountered include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and rectal bleeding.
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To undergo colonoscopy Conway AR patients should read more about this procedure online. Here is the website that contains further info at http://morriltonsurgery.com.
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