Define The Surgical Procedure For Colonoscopy

By Author: Barbara
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Colonoscopy is the endoscopic examination of the large intestines and the distal section of the small bowel by using a fiber optic or CCD camera on a bendable tube which is sent through the rectum. The procedure is used to test for gastrointestinal symptoms like rectal and intestinal bleeding, diarrhea, changes in bowel habits, irregularity discovered on colon x- ray or a CT scan or abdominal pain.

The process of colonoscopy requires that the colon must be free of any solid matter so the physician can clearly view the colon so the test can be done effectively. To clean the colon requires a three day procedure of cleaning, the first day requires the patient to follow a low fiber or clear liquid only diet, which utilizes fluids like water, apple juice, lemonade, lemon-lime soda for flushing. Hydration is very important during this process. Persons should avoid eating prune, orange juice, milk and other liquids that are colored such as purple, orange with the exception of cola and in some cases black coffee.

On the day prior the colonoscopy procedure, the person is given a laxative in the form of tablets or phospho ...
... soda, sodium picosulfate or magnesium citrate along with large amounts of fluid in order to promote bowel movement. In some cases a solution of polyethylene glycol and electrolytes are given to flush the gastrointestinal tract. On this day the patient is advised to stay home so they can always access the toilet facilities.

On the day of the colonoscopy procedure, Patients are given pain relievers and a sedative to help the body to relax. The patient will be required to wear a hospital gown and will go through a digital rectal examination which test the tone of the circular muscles to secure that the preparation is adequate. Persons are asked to lie on the left side with their knees placed into the chest, then a small amount of oxygen is then used to open up the colon so the doctor can observe the colon lining. During a colonoscopy the doctor uses a long, flexible instrument to view the walls of the colon. The colonoscope is inserted into the anus and then advanced into the large intestines.

During the procedure, persons may feel a mild cramping that can be reduced by taking deep breaths. Sometimes small amounts of tissue are removed for analysis called biopsy. This is done in order to diagnose and treat problems found without the need for major surgical procedure. At the end of the procedure, the colonoscope is slowly withdrawn while the walls is carefully inspected. This procedure will usually last about thrity minutes.

After the colonoscopy is over, patients may be filled with gas and will be asked remain in the recovery room for observation. When the patient is now able to leave they will be told as to when they can continue their regular diet. In most cases, the colonoscopy procedure has a very low risks of developing serious complications. The most severe complication would be a hole in the lining of the colon which is a pemetration of the stomach wall which can be life threatening and requires immediate major surgical procedure for correction. This situation however happens only once in every 2000 cases.

Please visit this link for more information on Colonoscopy Preparation and this link for information on Colonoscopy Procedure