Among the most important procedures that have to be performed when an individual is diagnosed with a condition affecting the large intestine is colonoscopy. The procedure is performed by inserting a special instrument called a colonoscope through the anal opening and directing through the large intestines. This instrument is fitted with a camera that captures the images in the region and transmits them to a screen. There are several thing on colonoscopy Conway AR patients need to know.
Colonoscopy has helped diagnose varied conditions. The commonest conditions seen are benign and malignant tumors. Others include ulcers (such as those seen in inflammatory bowel disease), enlarged prostate glands (in men) and colonic polyps. The general advice is that any man above 40 years should undergo the procedure for screening purpose every three years. Any person that has unexplained rectal bleeding is another possible candidate.
Apart from being useful in making diagnoses, colonoscopy is also important in therapy. When bleeding ulcers are seen, for instance, sclerosing chemicals can be applied to the region to minimize the bleeding. Another alternative is to use electric current to directly close the bleeding vessels. This is known as cauterization. In cases where tumors are suspected, tissue specimens are obtained and later subjected to examination.
Since this is an invasive procedure, there is a need for one to undergo adequate preparation. This helps minimize the risk of complications. Among the important things to be done is a determination of hemoglobin and platelet levels. If any of these parameters is lower than expected, then the risk of bleeding is high. Another important step during preparation is what is known as colon cleansing.
Colon cleansing is a process in which fecal material is removed from the intestines. This makes it possible to visualize any lesions found in the colon. The process is done by administering drugs known as laxatives whose main role is to increase gut motility. Whereas traditional laxatives worked in two to three days, newer agents work within a few hours.
One needs to modify their diet as part of the colon cleanse process. A diet rich in beverages such gelatin, coffee, clear juices and tea is recommended. These foods flow through the gut easily and help with cleaning it up. Ensure that you avoid taking colored juices which tend to stain the mucosal surface of the colon resulting in alternation of lesion appearance.
The colonoscopy procedure typically takes 45 minutes as long as complications do not occur. Light sedation is needed to relieve discomfort and a bit of pain but general anesthesia is not necessary. Taking deep breaths at intervals also goes a long into relieving the discomfort. Wind may be passed as the scope is maneuvered into the intestine. There is no need to be embarrassed.
Patients will typically be allowed home on the same day. 24 hours of observation may be needed if complications set in or if one takes too long to recover from the effects of sedation. Possible complications include bleeding, dizziness, vomiting and nausea.
Colonoscopy has helped diagnose varied conditions. The commonest conditions seen are benign and malignant tumors. Others include ulcers (such as those seen in inflammatory bowel disease), enlarged prostate glands (in men) and colonic polyps. The general advice is that any man above 40 years should undergo the procedure for screening purpose every three years. Any person that has unexplained rectal bleeding is another possible candidate.
Apart from being useful in making diagnoses, colonoscopy is also important in therapy. When bleeding ulcers are seen, for instance, sclerosing chemicals can be applied to the region to minimize the bleeding. Another alternative is to use electric current to directly close the bleeding vessels. This is known as cauterization. In cases where tumors are suspected, tissue specimens are obtained and later subjected to examination.
Since this is an invasive procedure, there is a need for one to undergo adequate preparation. This helps minimize the risk of complications. Among the important things to be done is a determination of hemoglobin and platelet levels. If any of these parameters is lower than expected, then the risk of bleeding is high. Another important step during preparation is what is known as colon cleansing.
Colon cleansing is a process in which fecal material is removed from the intestines. This makes it possible to visualize any lesions found in the colon. The process is done by administering drugs known as laxatives whose main role is to increase gut motility. Whereas traditional laxatives worked in two to three days, newer agents work within a few hours.
One needs to modify their diet as part of the colon cleanse process. A diet rich in beverages such gelatin, coffee, clear juices and tea is recommended. These foods flow through the gut easily and help with cleaning it up. Ensure that you avoid taking colored juices which tend to stain the mucosal surface of the colon resulting in alternation of lesion appearance.
The colonoscopy procedure typically takes 45 minutes as long as complications do not occur. Light sedation is needed to relieve discomfort and a bit of pain but general anesthesia is not necessary. Taking deep breaths at intervals also goes a long into relieving the discomfort. Wind may be passed as the scope is maneuvered into the intestine. There is no need to be embarrassed.
Patients will typically be allowed home on the same day. 24 hours of observation may be needed if complications set in or if one takes too long to recover from the effects of sedation. Possible complications include bleeding, dizziness, vomiting and nausea.
About the Author:
To undergo colonoscopy Conway AR patients should read more about this procedure online. Here is the website that contains further info at http://morriltonsurgery.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment