What is a Colonoscopy?

I bet I can make a good guess and tell you what you are thinking of when you read the term colonoscopy. Well if you are really thinking, what would come to mind is the term "colon." As this usually is spoken of in conjunction with bowel movement and the rectum, you can decipher that a colonoscopy would then involve some form of procedure with this part of a body.

Additionally, making a deeper analysis, one can also break this word apart forming "colon" and "copy" which would then suggest some form of duplication or reproduction of a look-a-like! Well you are indeed on the right track!

Specifically, a colonoscopy is a process in which the colon and the rectum is examined visually. The term "copy" comes into play in this regard if you are able to decipher that as a picture of the colon is made, a duplicate is indeed formed. Exclusively, it is done by utilizing a flexible, thin span to place inside the rectum, making its way to the colon and receiving visuals of its inner walls by way of a camera. Normally, it is able to detect inflamed tissue, abnormal growths and ulcers within the colon. This is all in the effort to find out if colon cancer or any abnormalities are present.

The Procedure

A colonoscopy is usually carried out in a hospital or at an outpatient clinic. Right before the colonoscopy is done, the patient is given sedatives and painkillers with an injection in a vein. The patient is placed in a side position, often times on the left side with knees drawn to their chest. The anus is then checked for any blockages with the aid of a lubricated glove.

The colonoscope (also lubricated) is then inserted in the anal passage making its way to the upper colon until the appendix has been reached.

In cases where the colon needs to be opened more for this procedure, the doctor will pump air into the colon, tightly massage the walls of the abdomen and ask the patient to change their position (usually to the right side). Once a tumor or abnormality is found, a portion is taken by way of a biopsy in which treatment is obtained with the help of this sample. Air thereafter is allowed to escape the rectum so as to avoid painful and unpleasant feelings.
Other facts you may find useful about a colonoscopy is that in most cases it will not hurt if the procedure is done in the right way. Additionally, it is an important procedure that should be taken by all who have a family history of colon cancer or have experienced rectal bleeding.

Persons over the age of fifty years are usually encouraged to get a colonoscopy once every five years. If you are scheduled to undertake a colonoscopy, you will usually be given medication to cleanse your colon beforehand, making the doctor's work easier and examination much quicker!

If you or a loved one are facing Surgery For Colon Cancer, be sure to visit my site and read my article on Laparoscopic Surgery for Colon Cancer.