Colonoscopy Procedure

A colonoscopy procedure refers to a procedure used to examine the colon and the rectum using a fine fiber optic camera. The procedure consists of passing a small flexible tube with a camera attached to its end though the anus. In addition to providing a glimpse into potential and existing problems with the bowel, it also offers an opportunity for both removal of lesions and a biopsy. A colonoscopy can help remove polyps as small as a millimeter which can then be studied under a microscope in order to determine if it’s precancerous.

Purpose of Colonoscopy Procedure

There are a number of reasons why a doctor may recommend a colonoscopy procedure which may include, but are not limited to, unexplained sudden changes in bowel movement, gastrointestinal hemorrhage and abdominal pain. In the majority of cases, a colonoscopy is mostly used to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer. A drop in hematocrit in patients over the age of 40 is a sign of anemia, and calls for a colonoscopy procedure coupled with esophagogastroduodenoscopy, even if no blood has been noticed in the feces of the patient.

Recommended Timeframe for Colonoscopy Procedure

The high motility rate associated with colon cancer has promoted many governments to include colonoscopy as a routine procedure for patients over the age of 50. A patient will then also have to go through a sequence of rescreenings based on the findings of his or her first colonoscopy procedure. Patients who have a family history of colon cancer are screed 10 years earlier than other patients in an effort to spot colon cancer in earlier developing stages when it is also easier to treat.

Preparations for Colonoscopy Procedure

In order for the colonoscopy procedure to be performed properly, the colon first needs to be cleared of all solid matter. This will essentially require a colon cleansing procedure which commences around three days prior to the actual procedure. Doctors recommend that the patient follow a diet low in fiber and drink only clear liquids, which includes lots of water and fruit juices. Best examples of clear fluids are bouillon, apple juice, lemonade, and sports drinks. Foods such as milk, orange juice, and prune juice should be avoided since they contain fiber. Also drinks that have artificial dye included should not be drunk, except for cola.

The Day before a Colonoscopy Procedure

Doctors would often give patients a laxative a day before the procedure in order to flush out any remaining solids. Large quantities of fluids or a bowel irrigation procedure may also be performed using electrolytes and polyethylene glycol. Most doctors will recommend both i.e. the laxative pill and bowel irrigation especially to those patients who suffer from chronic constipation.

Taking a day off from work before the procedure will allow patients to focus on clearing their colon of all solid mater more effectively by following the doctor’s guidelines to the dot. It will also make it easy for them to visit the toilet as much as they feel like until their bowel is clean.