Colonoscopy is a common procedure performed in both men and women. Its main role is in the examination of conditions affecting the large intestine (also termed the colon). The examination is conducted using an instrument called a colonoscope. The instrument is flexible and has a camera that captures the characteristics of lesions found with this region. The images are later transmitted onto a monitor. Before undergoing colonoscopy Conway AR residents need to know a number of things.
Colonoscopy is useful in a number of situations. It is particularly useful when examining lesions that are suspected to be benign or malignant tumors. Apart from tumors the colonoscope also helps in the visualization of ulcers that are a common outcome of bowel inflammatory disease. Others include enlarge prostate glands in men and colonic polyps in both men and women. The general advice is that anyone with rectal bleeding should undergo the examination.
Other than the role in making diagnoses, this investigation is important in instituting therapeutic measures. For a number of conditions, treatment may be done or more investigations may be carried out. When tumors are suspected, for example, specimens may be taken and examined to determine the type of cancer involved. For bleeding ulcers, slecrosant agents may be administered to reduce the bleeding. Another benefit is the removal of single polyps by cutting them at the stalk.
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.
The procedure itself is quite straightforward. It takes about an hour to complete as long as complications are encountered. Since there may be a bit of discomfort, sedation is usually administered. You may also be asked to take deep breaths as the scope is inserted and directed through the gut. As the scope is directed to the site of interest, you are likely to pass wind. This is perfectly normal.
A person who has undergone colonoscopy can be allowed to go home on the same day. Rarely, they may be retained in hospital for about 24 hours if the sedation takes too long to wear off or if there are complications. Commonly encountered complications may include dizziness, bleeding, vomiting and nausea.
Colonoscopy is useful in a number of situations. It is particularly useful when examining lesions that are suspected to be benign or malignant tumors. Apart from tumors the colonoscope also helps in the visualization of ulcers that are a common outcome of bowel inflammatory disease. Others include enlarge prostate glands in men and colonic polyps in both men and women. The general advice is that anyone with rectal bleeding should undergo the examination.
Other than the role in making diagnoses, this investigation is important in instituting therapeutic measures. For a number of conditions, treatment may be done or more investigations may be carried out. When tumors are suspected, for example, specimens may be taken and examined to determine the type of cancer involved. For bleeding ulcers, slecrosant agents may be administered to reduce the bleeding. Another benefit is the removal of single polyps by cutting them at the stalk.
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.
The procedure itself is quite straightforward. It takes about an hour to complete as long as complications are encountered. Since there may be a bit of discomfort, sedation is usually administered. You may also be asked to take deep breaths as the scope is inserted and directed through the gut. As the scope is directed to the site of interest, you are likely to pass wind. This is perfectly normal.
A person who has undergone colonoscopy can be allowed to go home on the same day. Rarely, they may be retained in hospital for about 24 hours if the sedation takes too long to wear off or if there are complications. Commonly encountered complications may include dizziness, bleeding, vomiting and nausea.
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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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