Colonoscopy Procedure

A colonoscopy procedure is a process done by using a narrow flexible tube which is inserted into the rectum. A small CCD camera on one end of the flexible tube is inserted to help the doctor form a visual diagnosis. With this procedure the doctor can look into the rectum and intestine, thus making detection easier. This procedure is very helpful to determine if the person has any kind of obstruction or colon cancer. It is also used to check for other problems such as blood in the stool, change in bowel routine, or other related problems. There are several benefits of colonoscopy procedure, such as it is relatively a painless procedure that has minimum number of risks, and is done quickly.

Although this colonoscopy procedure is simple and quick, there are several things you need to know about the procedure.

One day before the colonoscopy procedure –

The preparation needs to done 24 hours prior to the procedure. Usually solid food is not allowed to enter the digestive tract as it may interfere with the procedure. The patient is allowed to consume only liquids, without artificial coloring. It is very important for the patient to stay hydrated through out the period. A laxative is given to the patient to clean the colon completely; this will make the procedure easy. Usually these laxatives are strong, which means you need to stay near a restroom. It is good to inform your doctor in case you are taking other medications, as you may need to discontinue it for awhile. Remember to follow the rules exactly as prescribed, if not the procedure may show less than accurate results.

The procedure –

The procedure can finish within 15 – 20 minutes, or last up to one hour. If the procedure is done by an experienced doctor, then it is speedy and not painful. Still, medications are given to make the patient drowsy and ease any discomfort. The sedatives work immediately, and will make you drowsy. If polyps are found in the intestine, they are removed immediately. Polyps are growths in the intestine that may cause an obstruction in the colon, and hence need to be removed at once. Removing them is also an effective way to prevent cancer. After removing it the tissue is sent to a laboratory to analyze if it is cancerous.

After the colonoscopy procedure –

Once the procedure is done, it will take sometime for the effects of the medication to wear off. At this stage the patient is taken to a room to rest, and may require someone to take them home. This procedure does not take very long, and the patient is discharged within one day. But it will take almost a day to recover from the grogginess. There are chances that you experience a bloating sensation, the need to pass gas, slight cramping, sometimes a little blood is also detected. All these are completely normal and are nothing to worry about. But, if you feel the need to talk to your doctor to clarify a doubt or if anything is worrying you, it is best to give them a call. The patient can resume to their usual routine and diet, unless specified otherwise.

Here is another site on what causes colon cancer.