Colonoscopy is a test that evaluates the lining of the large intestine, being especially indicated to identify the presence of polyps, intestinal cancer or other abnormalities in the intestine, such as colitis, varicose veins or diverticular disease.
This test may be indicated when the person has symptoms that may suggest intestinal changes, such as bleeding or persistent diarrhea, for example, but is also routinely necessary for colon cancer screening in people over age 50, or earlier, if necessary. increased risk of developing the disease. Check bowel cancer symptoms and when to worry.
- For colonoscopy it is necessary to prepare a special preparation with dietary adjustments and the use of laxatives.
- So that the intestine is clean and the changes can be visualized.
- The test usually does not cause pain as it is performed under sedation; However.
- Some people may experience discomfort.
- Swelling or pressure in the abdomen during the procedure.
Some of the main indications of colonoscopy include
During the colonoscopy exam, procedures such as biopsy collection or even polyps are also possible. In addition, the test may be indicated as a therapeutic method, as it also allows the cauterization of blood vessels that may bleed or even decompression of the intestinal vorulum. Find out what Volvo is gut and how to treat this dangerous complication.
In order for the doctor to perform the colonoscopy and visualize the changes, it is necessary that the colon is completely clean, that is, without any residue of faeces or food and, to do so, special preparation must be made for the examination, which is indicated by the doctor or clinic who will perform the examination.
Ideally, the preparation begins at least 2 days before the scan, when the patient can start a diet of easy digestion, based on bread, rice and white pasta, liquids, juices without fruit pulp, meat, fish and boiled eggs and yogurt without fruits or pieces, avoiding milk, fruits, nuts, vegetables, vegetables and cereals.
Within 24 hours of the test, a liquid diet is indicated so that no residues are produced in the large intestine. It is also recommended to use laxatives, drink a mannitol-based solution, a type of sugar that helps cleanse the intestine, or even perform a bowel wash, which is done following the doctor’s recommendations. Learn more about the diet and how to prepare for a colonoscopy.
In addition, it may be necessary to stop some of the medications used before the test, such as AAS, anticoagulants, metformin or insulin, for example, as recommended by your doctor. It is also necessary to accompany the exam, as sedation may numb the person and driving or working after the test is not recommended.
Colonoscopy is performed with the introduction of a thin tube through the anus, usually under sedation for patient comfort. This tube is equipped with a camera to allow the visualization of the intestinal lining and, during the examination, small amounts of air are injected into the intestine to improve visualization.
Normally, the patient is lying on his side, and when the doctor inserts the colonoscopy tube into his anus, he or she may feel an increase in abdominal pressure.
Colonoscopy usually lasts between 20 and 60 minutes and, after the test, the patient should recover for about 2 hours before returning home.
Virtual colonoscopy uses CT to obtain images of the intestine, without the need for a camera coloscope to capture images. During the exam, a tube is inserted through the anus that injects air into the intestine, making it easier to observe inside and possible changes.
Virtual colonoscopy has some limitations, such as difficulty identifying small polyps and the inability to perform a biopsy, so it does not faithfully replace normal colonoscopy. Learn more about this procedure at: Virtual Colonoscopy.