One of the most effective ways of diagnosing lesions in the gastrointestinal system is through colonoscope. A colonoscope is a tubular instrument that has a camera attached to one end and a controlling device on the other. The instrument is typically inserted through the anal verge and guided through the rectum and colon so as to inspect the mucosal surface. There are a number of benefits of colonoscopy Morrilton AR residents need to know of.
A number of diseases and medical conditions are diagnosed using this approach. Examples include malignant and benign tumors, bleeding ulcers and polyps among others. A typical candidate is an individual with symptoms that suggest of colon disease. Such will include, for instance, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, longstanding constipation and chronic abdominal pain among others.
Apart from diagnosis, the procedure is also quite useful as a therapeutic measure. A number of the conditions can be treated as soon as they are visualized. For instance, bleeding ulcers are often exposed to a sclerosing agent that stops the bleeding. Other possible interventions include banding (using special silicon bands) and cauterization. Polyps can also be safely removed using a colonoscope. Tissue specimens are usually obtained from the diseased site and subjected to histological examination.
One needs to do a number of things as part of the preparation. Some of the things to be done apply to other procedures while others are specific to colonoscopy. Screening for the risk of bleeding is something that is done for all invasive procedures. A full blood count helps to determine the number of platelets. If the platelets are too few, the procedure may be postponed. A more specific preparation step is what is termed colon cleansing.
Colon cleaning refers to the removal of fecal material from the gut prior to the procedure. It is meant to make it possible to maneuver the scope and to visualize the mucosal surface of the colon. Laxatives are usually given for a day or two so as to increase the frequency of passing stool. Newer laxatives that can empty the entire digestive tract in a few hours are now available and are usually taken on the night before the procedure.
Your doctor will recommend a special diet as you undergo the cleansing process. The diet should be predominantly liquid. Beverages such as tea, coffee and clear juice are some of the suggestions that may be made. Ensure that you avoid red and purple colored juices as these are likely to stain the mucosal surface of the colon and interfere with the findings.
The procedure takes 45 minutes to one hour in the absence of complications. There is usually no need for general anesthesia but some light sedation helps reduce pain and discomfort. There is mild discomfort as the scope is maneuvered through the anal opening into the colon. Taking a deep breath at this time often helps to minimize this unpleasant feeling. Rarely, the feeling may persist even after the procedure.
Unless complications set in, you will be allowed to go home as soon as the effects of the sedative wear off. The presence of complications may mean that you be retained in hospital for at least 24 hours for observation. Commonly encountered complications include bleeding (especially among patients with ulcers and cancers), nausea, vomiting and dizziness among others.
A number of diseases and medical conditions are diagnosed using this approach. Examples include malignant and benign tumors, bleeding ulcers and polyps among others. A typical candidate is an individual with symptoms that suggest of colon disease. Such will include, for instance, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, longstanding constipation and chronic abdominal pain among others.
Apart from diagnosis, the procedure is also quite useful as a therapeutic measure. A number of the conditions can be treated as soon as they are visualized. For instance, bleeding ulcers are often exposed to a sclerosing agent that stops the bleeding. Other possible interventions include banding (using special silicon bands) and cauterization. Polyps can also be safely removed using a colonoscope. Tissue specimens are usually obtained from the diseased site and subjected to histological examination.
One needs to do a number of things as part of the preparation. Some of the things to be done apply to other procedures while others are specific to colonoscopy. Screening for the risk of bleeding is something that is done for all invasive procedures. A full blood count helps to determine the number of platelets. If the platelets are too few, the procedure may be postponed. A more specific preparation step is what is termed colon cleansing.
Colon cleaning refers to the removal of fecal material from the gut prior to the procedure. It is meant to make it possible to maneuver the scope and to visualize the mucosal surface of the colon. Laxatives are usually given for a day or two so as to increase the frequency of passing stool. Newer laxatives that can empty the entire digestive tract in a few hours are now available and are usually taken on the night before the procedure.
Your doctor will recommend a special diet as you undergo the cleansing process. The diet should be predominantly liquid. Beverages such as tea, coffee and clear juice are some of the suggestions that may be made. Ensure that you avoid red and purple colored juices as these are likely to stain the mucosal surface of the colon and interfere with the findings.
The procedure takes 45 minutes to one hour in the absence of complications. There is usually no need for general anesthesia but some light sedation helps reduce pain and discomfort. There is mild discomfort as the scope is maneuvered through the anal opening into the colon. Taking a deep breath at this time often helps to minimize this unpleasant feeling. Rarely, the feeling may persist even after the procedure.
Unless complications set in, you will be allowed to go home as soon as the effects of the sedative wear off. The presence of complications may mean that you be retained in hospital for at least 24 hours for observation. Commonly encountered complications include bleeding (especially among patients with ulcers and cancers), nausea, vomiting and dizziness among others.
About the Author:
In order to become better informed about the process of colonoscopy Morrilton AR residents should first review the details online. To learn more about this procedure, simply check out this homepage on http://morriltonsurgery.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment