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 conditions can be successfully diagnosed in this manner. They include, among other, tumors (both cancerous and non-cancerous), ulcers and fissures, and polyps. A potential candidate is an individual who has symptoms that are suggestive of colon disease. Such symptoms may include, rectal bleeding, unexplained constipation, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal pains among others.
Aside from the making of a diagnosis, this procedure can be used for treatment. There are a number of situations in which a therapeutic interventions can be undertaken. An example is in the case of ulcers where a number of techniques can be undertaken. Sclerosing agents can be applied directly to the bleeding vessel to stop the bleeding. Other interventions that may also be effective include banding and cauterization. It is common for tissues specimens to be taken at the same time 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.
Patients are typically allowed home on the same day as soon as they regain consciousness. In rare circumstances, you may be retained for 24 hours especially if the sedation takes a bit long to wear of or if some complications are encountered. Bleeding is the most likely complication particularly in persons with bleeding ulcers and cancerous growths. Others include nausea, dizziness and vomiting.
A number of conditions can be successfully diagnosed in this manner. They include, among other, tumors (both cancerous and non-cancerous), ulcers and fissures, and polyps. A potential candidate is an individual who has symptoms that are suggestive of colon disease. Such symptoms may include, rectal bleeding, unexplained constipation, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal pains among others.
Aside from the making of a diagnosis, this procedure can be used for treatment. There are a number of situations in which a therapeutic interventions can be undertaken. An example is in the case of ulcers where a number of techniques can be undertaken. Sclerosing agents can be applied directly to the bleeding vessel to stop the bleeding. Other interventions that may also be effective include banding and cauterization. It is common for tissues specimens to be taken at the same time 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.
Patients are typically allowed home on the same day as soon as they regain consciousness. In rare circumstances, you may be retained for 24 hours especially if the sedation takes a bit long to wear of or if some complications are encountered. Bleeding is the most likely complication particularly in persons with bleeding ulcers and cancerous growths. Others include nausea, dizziness and vomiting.
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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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