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.
Several diseases can be effectively diagnosed using this technique. They include, for instance, tumors (both benign and malignant), polyps, ulcers and fissures among others. The typical candidate is one with symptoms related to the colon and the rectum. These include anal bleeding, abdominal pain, frequent constipation and unexplained weight loss 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 cleansing is simply the removal of fecal material from the large intestines prior to the performance of the test. This is typically achieved in a day or two using various cleaning agents. Many of these agents are laxatives that increase the frequency of passing stool so that the colon can be emptied as fast as possible. Newer agents that can achieve the desired effect in a matter of hours are now commercially available.
There is a need to be on special diet as the cleansing process takes place. The general recommendation is that one should be put on a liquid diet such as tea, coffee, gelatin and clear juices. Red and purple colored drinks should to be avoided as they have the potential of staining the colon and distorting the findings. Bear in mind that due to the increase in gut motility you may have bouts of diarrhea.
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.
You will usually be allowed home on the same day except in instances where complications are encountered. There may be a need to monitor for a few complications such as bleeding, nausea, dizziness and vomiting. The risk of bleeding is highest among persons with bleeding cancers and ulcers.
Several diseases can be effectively diagnosed using this technique. They include, for instance, tumors (both benign and malignant), polyps, ulcers and fissures among others. The typical candidate is one with symptoms related to the colon and the rectum. These include anal bleeding, abdominal pain, frequent constipation and unexplained weight loss 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 cleansing is simply the removal of fecal material from the large intestines prior to the performance of the test. This is typically achieved in a day or two using various cleaning agents. Many of these agents are laxatives that increase the frequency of passing stool so that the colon can be emptied as fast as possible. Newer agents that can achieve the desired effect in a matter of hours are now commercially available.
There is a need to be on special diet as the cleansing process takes place. The general recommendation is that one should be put on a liquid diet such as tea, coffee, gelatin and clear juices. Red and purple colored drinks should to be avoided as they have the potential of staining the colon and distorting the findings. Bear in mind that due to the increase in gut motility you may have bouts of diarrhea.
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.
You will usually be allowed home on the same day except in instances where complications are encountered. There may be a need to monitor for a few complications such as bleeding, nausea, dizziness and vomiting. The risk of bleeding is highest among persons with bleeding cancers and ulcers.
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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.
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