Expelling the Fear of Colonoscopy Procedure

The near future of colonoscopy procedure would be state-of-the-art mini robotics camera ingestion for probing any dubious growths in the colon. However, in the present times, the ideal method for screening colon cancer still continues to be the comparatively basic colonoscopy procedure.

A 4 foot spanning, fine, bendable fiber optic tube (half inch diameter-wise) is employed for looking into the interiors of the large intestine beginning from the rectal area and concluding in the initial portion of the colon (or known as cecum) or collectively known as the large bowel area. The scope would also emit air bursts inside the colon for expanding it to facilitate better viewing. It is an outpatient method for evaluating signs such as pains in the abdomen, bleeding from rectum, polyp formations that could turn cancerous or any alterations in bowel movements. It could additionally be helpful in colorectal cancer screening.

Ideal Candidates for Colonoscopy Procedure

The rule-of-thumb for getting screened for colonoscopy procedure is for those people with a family history of colon cancer (or having a first degree blood relation like mom, dad or siblings having colon cancer). In such a scenario, that person must get screened when he/she is ten years younger than the age at which his/her relative was diagnosed. Individuals with no risk factors for the disease could start getting screened from fifty years of age onwards.

What one needs to do prior to colonoscopy?

Prior to colonoscopy, the physician should be informed regarding any type of medical conditions one might be having that include being pregnant, lung or cardiovascular conditions, any allergic reactions to medicines, in case diabetic or taking medications which might impact blood clotting. Such drugs would have to be amended prior to the method.

Also, one must not make the folly of halting any medicine prior to firstly seeking medical opinion. One might require taking antibiotics prior to colonoscopy in case the person has a synthetic cardiac valve or has been informed that antibiotics would be necessary prior to a dental or operative method.

Pre-requisites to Colonoscopy Procedure

For getting a clear, unobstructed view of the intestines, the scope jockey would need a cleansed bowel. An incompletely cleared colon with remnant feces would block the fiber optics, thus preventing a proper examination and the need to undergo a repeat of the procedure.

Colonoscopy Prep

Several physicians employ various bowel preps and involves going on a liquid diet for a day followed by drinking a laxative mixture that would elicit loose bowels for which one must ideally be prepared or staying at home. Even 2 enemas would be necessary prior to the method for total emptying of rectal and lower intestinal area to get a clearer view of the intestinal walls. Holding the enema concoction for a minimal of 5 minutes prior to discarding it is advised.

Colonoscopy Procedure: What to expect?

Prior to the thirty to sixty minute long procedure commencing, the person would be administered an intravenous shot administration of tranquilizing medicine like Versed and fentanyl (a sedative) that induces a sense of mild sedation. Lying down on the left side would be suggested on the exam table while the scope scans the curves of the colon. Slight cramps would be sensed which could be lowered by taking numerous slow-paced, deep inhalations and exhalations during the method.

In case anything dubious is encountered then removal of tiny portions of the tissue are done (biopsy procedure) and irregular growth or polyp could be detected and excised. In several situations, colonoscopy facilitates precise identification and therapy with no requirement for a major surgery.

Post-Colonoscopy Care

One is advised to make advanced preparations for someone to drive the person home post procedure due to the sedative medicine being given during the method. Also operating machines or driving is not recommended for 8 hours post-procedure.