Colonoscopy is an important investigation when it comes to the diagnosis of conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract. This tests may be conducted by both physicians and surgeons using a specialized piece of equipment known as a colonoscope. Some of the conditions that may be diagnosed using this procedure include polyps, tumors, ulcers and other bleeding lesions. There is some critical information on colonoscopy Morrilton AR patients should know.
Other than identifying abnormalities within the large gut, this test is also used to obtain specimens from the affected regions. Such specimens are commonly referred to as biopsies. It is also possible to undertake some interventions using the procedure such as the removal of polyps. Another important application is the use in screening for cancers and precancerous conditions. The colonoscope has a camera that can be used to capture the appearance of the mucosa as an image.
There are several things that have to be done as part of preparing for the test. Colon prep is the collective term that is used for all the steps that are used in ensuring that the large gut is clean. Laxatives are usually used for this purpose and are usually given for a day or two. Newer colon prep laxatives can be given the night before and still work effectively.
A liquid diet is recommended during the period of the prep. The options include water, clear juices, tea, coffee and gelatin. Grape juice, fruit punch and any other drinks that are red or purple in color should be avoided. Due to the intake of the liquid diet, one may get hungry frequently since the stomach is emptied within a very short time of eating. Diarrhea is common.
The doctor will require some information before they go ahead with the test. Such information includes whether one is taking any drugs such as blood thinners or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin among others. Persons that are on either aspirin or iron supplements should stop taking them at least 7 days prior to the test. One will be asked to sign a consent form that states that they understand the risks involved.
During the test, you will be given a sedative drug to help minimize the pain and discomfort. As the colonoscope is inserted into the colon, one may feel as if they are having a bowel movement. Other people experience abdominal cramping. To minimize this feeling, patients are advised to take a deep breath through the mouth. This helps relax the abdominal muscles. It is normal to pass flatus as the scope is maneuvered and one should not be embarrassed.
The test typically takes thirty to forty five minutes. Some cases may take longer if complicated lesions are encountered. One may be retained in the clinic for a couple of hours for observation before they can be allowed to go home. You need to drink plenty of fluids to replace those that were lost during the prep. You will be advised on when exactly you can resume with your normal diet.
The risks that are associated with the procedure are minimal. Bleeding is perhaps the commonest and is most likely to be encountered if there are friable lesions within the lumen of the gut. Other complications include vomiting, dizziness and fever. Ensure that you call your doctor if you get any of these complications.
Other than identifying abnormalities within the large gut, this test is also used to obtain specimens from the affected regions. Such specimens are commonly referred to as biopsies. It is also possible to undertake some interventions using the procedure such as the removal of polyps. Another important application is the use in screening for cancers and precancerous conditions. The colonoscope has a camera that can be used to capture the appearance of the mucosa as an image.
There are several things that have to be done as part of preparing for the test. Colon prep is the collective term that is used for all the steps that are used in ensuring that the large gut is clean. Laxatives are usually used for this purpose and are usually given for a day or two. Newer colon prep laxatives can be given the night before and still work effectively.
A liquid diet is recommended during the period of the prep. The options include water, clear juices, tea, coffee and gelatin. Grape juice, fruit punch and any other drinks that are red or purple in color should be avoided. Due to the intake of the liquid diet, one may get hungry frequently since the stomach is emptied within a very short time of eating. Diarrhea is common.
The doctor will require some information before they go ahead with the test. Such information includes whether one is taking any drugs such as blood thinners or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin among others. Persons that are on either aspirin or iron supplements should stop taking them at least 7 days prior to the test. One will be asked to sign a consent form that states that they understand the risks involved.
During the test, you will be given a sedative drug to help minimize the pain and discomfort. As the colonoscope is inserted into the colon, one may feel as if they are having a bowel movement. Other people experience abdominal cramping. To minimize this feeling, patients are advised to take a deep breath through the mouth. This helps relax the abdominal muscles. It is normal to pass flatus as the scope is maneuvered and one should not be embarrassed.
The test typically takes thirty to forty five minutes. Some cases may take longer if complicated lesions are encountered. One may be retained in the clinic for a couple of hours for observation before they can be allowed to go home. You need to drink plenty of fluids to replace those that were lost during the prep. You will be advised on when exactly you can resume with your normal diet.
The risks that are associated with the procedure are minimal. Bleeding is perhaps the commonest and is most likely to be encountered if there are friable lesions within the lumen of the gut. Other complications include vomiting, dizziness and fever. Ensure that you call your doctor if you get any of these complications.
About the Author:
Find details about the benefits of receiving a colonoscopy Morrilton AR area and more information about an experienced surgeon at http://morriltonsurgery.com right now.
No comments:
Post a Comment