Colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure in which the large intestine and rectum are examined. During the colonoscopy application, if necessary, polyps in the large intestine can be removed or a tissue sample can be taken for examination in the laboratory. Colonoscopy, which is performed through the rectum, can be performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The intestine is examined with a flexible tube with a light and camera at the end
For Diagnostic Purposes: Colonoscopy can be performed to diagnose intestinal problems.
Colonoscopy should be performed for symptoms such as unexplained weight loss.
Bowel cancer screening: Colonoscopy should be performed for early detection of colon cancer and rectal cancer even if there are no complaints. A colonoscopy is recommended every 5 years over the age of 50. The frequency of colonoscopy may vary for people with a family history of colon or rectal cancer.
Polyp control: People who have had intestinal polyp problems before may need to undergo colonoscopy control at certain intervals. Early detection and removal of intestinal polyps during colonoscopy is one of the most important ways to prevent bowel cancer.
How is a colonoscopy done?
Before a colonoscopy is performed, there is a preparation process. The doctor who will perform the procedure before the colonoscopy;
Pregnancy
Lung diseases
Heart diseases
Diabetes
Information about the drugs used or drug allergies should be given.
In order for a colonoscopy to be successful, the intestines must be empty, that is, they must be cleaned. Different methods can be used for this. Intestines not cleaned properly; It may cause structures called lesions or polyps to be missed during the colonoscopy procedure, prolonging the colonoscopy procedure (prolonging colonoscopy may bring risks), and repeating the colonoscopy.
It is recommended to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes on the day of the colonoscopy to be comfortable after the procedure.
Before starting the colonoscopy, the patient is given medication, sedation and painkillers to calm him down.
During the procedure, an outfit called colonoscopy pants is worn, which will expose the back of the patient.
If necessary, electrodes can be attached to the body to monitor the patient's breathing, blood pressure and heart rate.
The patient is placed on the side of the examination table and the knees are pulled towards the chest and the colonoscopy position is achieved.
After taking the colonoscopy position, the doctor inserts the colonoscope into the anus.
The doctor may give some air to the intestines in order to make the procedure more comfortable and to obtain a clearer image.
If any abnormal areas are noted, a biopsy will be done with a special instrument on the colonoscope. Likewise, if a polyp is found, the polyps can be removed with a special wire loop on the colonoscopy.
It contains a small video camera at the tip of the colonoscopy device. The camera sends images to an external monitor so the doctor can more easily examine the inside of your colon.
When the resulting images are saved and the procedure is finished, the doctor removes the colonoscope.