Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside of the large intestine. During this procedure, a flexible tube-like instrument known as a colonoscope is inserted through the anus. This instrument is designed to navigate the colon and has a camera at its tip to record what is seen . Advanced colonoscopy machines often utilize techniques such as narrow-band imaging (NBI) for image enhancement, which is particularly beneficial in detecting early stages of cancer and pre-cancer..When looking for colonoscopy services in Chennai, make sure to choose a reputed provider.

How is a colonoscopy performed?

The colonoscopy procedure begins with the insertion of the colonoscope through the anus, after lubrication, and the inflation of a small amount of air to expand the colon. The examination typically covers the rectum, sigmoid colon, descending colon, transverse colon, ascending colon, cecum, and a portion of the ileum (which is technically part of the small intestine). Some patients may choose to undergo sedation (mild anesthesia) to make the procedure more comfortable. It is important to prepare the bowel hours before the procedure to ensure clear visualization, as small stool particles can obstruct the view. It usually takes 10-15 minutes to perform the procedure.

When is colonoscopy indicated?

Colonoscopy serves various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:

A) Diagnostic Indications:

Investigating unexplained rectal bleeding, including small amounts of bleeding that may present as black stools (melena), occult bleeding (only detectable through stool examination), and anemias of unknown origin.
Diagnosing and Assessing the Severity of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Detecting, assessing the extent of, and participating in screening programs for colorectal polyps, benign tumors, and cancer. Ensure you receive proper screening and diagnosis through the best centre for colonoscopy in Chennai.
Preparing for Surgery in Elderly Patients with Hemorrhoids.
Assessing specific cases of constipation, especially in older individuals.
Obtaining biopsies (small tissue samples) for microscopic examination by a pathologist.

B) Therapeutic Indications:

Managing bleeding through various methods, such as applying clips, sclerotherapy, banding, or laser treatment.
Alleviating obstructions by placing stents within constricted tumors or any narrow areas.
Removing polyps using techniques such as snares.
Treating early-stage cancers through procedures such as mucosal resection and submucosal dissection.

What problems can colonoscopy detect?

Colonoscopy is capable of identifying a range of issues, including bleeding spots, ulcers, polyps, and tumors. If needed, the doctor can collect small tissue samples (biopsies) from abnormal areas for microscopic analysis by a pathologist. The findings from the colonoscopy, along with the patient’s medical history and other test results, are used to determine a diagnosis. Understand the details of the procedure from the best centre for colonoscopy procedure in Chennai.

Precautions Before Colonoscopy: Awareness of any underlying medical conditions is crucial for both the gastroenterologist and the anesthesiologist.

Precautions After Colonoscopy: Bowel preparation may cause deliberate diarrhea, which may persist for a few episodes before subsiding. This may cause fatigue, and patients are generally advised to rest for the rest of the day. Once all the gas used during the procedure has been expelled and the abdomen feels lighter, patients can resume eating.

Is Colonoscopy Safe?

Colonoscopy is considered a very safe procedure, and hundreds of thousands of colonoscopies are performed worldwide every day. While rare, complications may include perforation, bleeding, hypotension, and side effects related to anesthesia. These risks are even lower in diagnostic colonoscopy, thanks to established safety measures that aim to prevent, recognize, and treat any complications.Colonoscopy is better done in the endoscopy room of a hospital set up or a medical centre rather than at a diagnostic centre or a lab.

Overcoming Fear of Colonoscopy: Understanding the procedure in advance can help alleviate anxiety. For anxious patients, mild anesthesia, known as sedation, can be administered, making them unaware of the procedure taking place.

The Success Rate of Colonoscopy: In some instances, challenges may arise due to factors such as a lengthy and flexible colon in elderly patients or sharp bends caused by adhesions from previous surgeries. In cases where the bowel is not adequately prepared or contains stool particles, the procedure may need to be repeated under anesthesia on another day.

Are There Alternatives to Colonoscopy?

In most cases, colonoscopy is the preferred method for a thorough examination of the colon. However, alternative approaches exist for specific indications.

CT scan with rectal instillation of contrast material for specific cases.
Virtual colonoscopy uses CT scan images for diagnosis.
Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a small camera capsule that captures images as it travels through the gastrointestinal tract.

What is sigmoidoscopy?

Sigmoidoscopy is a shorter version of colonoscopy, which focuses on examining the rectum and the left side of the colon. This may be sufficient for certain patients, particularly when diagnosing the cause of bleeding on the left side of the large intestine. Sedation is generally not necessary for sigmoidoscopy.

For individuals seeking colonoscopy services in Chennai, it is essential to consult with experienced gastroenterologists at renowned clinics or centers that specialize in colonoscopy procedures. These professionals can provide information on the cost of colonoscopy and guide patients through the process, ensuring their comfort and well-being during the procedure. Choose the best healthcare providers in Chennai for your colonoscopy needs.