Colonoscopy

The term colonoscopy relates to “colon” or the large intestine present in human beings. The colon is a part of the digestive system and is located in the abdominal region. It is followed by the rectum where all the wastes are accumulated before being excreted. This effectively means that colonoscopy has something to do with the digestive tract and is a method used to detect cancer and other problems.

Exact Definition

Colonoscopy is a technology which aims to provide doctors with a view of the patient’s colon and rectum. It is done with the help of a camera attached to a very thin flexible tube. The flexible tube is rendered into the body through the rectum and the camera obtains the visuals. Doctors undertake this procedure to analyze the internal tissues which cannot be done through external scans. This can help to check for abnormal growths, ulcers and other tissue related complications.

Rules and Regulations

Colonoscopy comes with a certain set of rules and regulations which need to be in place before any hospital can administer it. These include certified doctors, experienced staff and the availability of all essential drugs that might be required in case something goes wrong. Consent of the patient or his relatives is mandatory which has to be drafted on agreement papers.

Procedure

There are a number of steps that are followed in a serial order while conducting colonoscopy. These steps have been enumerated below.

1) The first step is to administer sedatives, painkillers and any other relevant drugs that might be required. For maximum effect, they are administered directly into the veins. The second step only starts when the sedatives have started taking effect.

2) The patient is asked to lie down in a side position with his or her legs pressed to the chest. This position offers maximum access to the doctors and is also considered to be the most comfortable for the patient.

3) A search for blockages in the anus is done to ensure no obstruction is present to ensure a smooth path for the tube.

4) A well lubricated tube is slowly inserted into the anal passage and is pushed further inside until the area under question can be studied with the help of an attached camera.