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Monday, September 26, 2016

By Pamela Bailey


Colonoscopy is a method that doctors use to observe the inside of the lining of the large intestine. The equipment used to do the test is referred to as a colonoscope. A colonoscope is a tube that is thin and flexible. The tube varies in length between 125-183 centimeters. A small video camera is connected to one end of the tube for capturing images of the large intestine. Morrilton AR colonoscopy experts are worth considering because they are highly experienced and trained.

A colonoscope can be used to take pictures and videos of the entire colon as well as the lower section of the small intestine. Another similar test to colonoscopy is referred to as sigmoidoscopy, and it is used to observe the rectum and lower parts of the colon alone. Thus, the two tests are usually used together in most cases.

The colonoscope is inserted slowly into the colon to avoid any form of discomfort. The doctor may have to pump a small amount of air into the colon so as to keep it open. This makes observation much easier and the images produced much clearer. The pictures taken are usually projected on a TV screen where they can be observe and analyzed.

Typically, it takes around 30 minutes to perform the test. Most people prefer to sleep during the process, which requires administration of a sedative or medication. One may need some help getting home after testing, which makes it advisable to bring a friend during the test. The doctor often sets the time interval for having the test. Unless one has higher chance of colon cancer, a ten year interval is not badly off.

This procedure is done to make diagnosis of several kinds of medical conditions. For starters, it is used to find the presence of tumors, ulcers, colon polyps, and areas of inflammation or bleeding in the colon. The process may involve taking a biopsy of the large intestine and removal of abnormal growths. It can be used to check for precancerous growths and colon or rectal cancer.

This test can also check the cause of various events such as diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, iron deficiency anemia, rectal bleeding, and dark or black stool. Sometimes, diagnostic tests such as barium anema, MRI, CT scan, stool test, and virtual colonoscopy produce abnormal results, and this procedure needs to be used to verify the cause. Inflammatory bowel disease is also watched and treated using this method as a test.

The colon needs to be cleaned out first before the test is performed. This process is called colon prep. There are different types of colon prep and different doctors prescribe different methods. However, the process takes 2-3 days. Some preps can be undertaken in the evening prior to testing.

The prep has been known to be worse than the actual test in some people. Bowel prep is often very uncomfortable. The clear liquid diet often makes people feel hungry. During the prep period, people often need to use the bathroom a lot. As such, it is important to be near one at all times.




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