Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy

Complete Guide to Understanding Colonoscopy Procedure

What is Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows doctors to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum) using a flexible tube with a camera.

This procedure is crucial for detecting colorectal cancer, polyps, and other abnormalities early, when they are most treatable. It can also help diagnose the cause of symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits.

Screening Tool

Primary method for colorectal cancer screening in individuals over 50 or with risk factors.

Diagnostic Procedure

Used to investigate symptoms like bleeding, pain, or abnormal bowel movements.

Why Colonoscopy is Done?

Cancer Screening

Regular colonoscopy screening can detect colorectal cancer early and remove precancerous polyps before they become malignant.

Investigate Symptoms

To find the cause of rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel habits.

Monitor Conditions

To monitor inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, or to check for recurrence after polyp removal.

Follow-up After Treatment

To check for new polyps or cancer recurrence after previous treatment for colorectal conditions.

Preparation for Colonoscopy

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful colonoscopy. The colon must be completely clean for the doctor to see clearly.

Dietary Preparation

  • Clear liquid diet 1-2 days before
  • Avoid solid foods, dairy, and red liquids
  • Drink plenty of clear fluids
  • Stop eating solid food 24 hours before

Bowel Preparation

  • Laxatives or enemas to clear the colon
  • Drink bowel prep solution as directed
  • Expect multiple bowel movements
  • Stay near bathroom during prep

The Colonoscopy Procedure

During the Procedure

  • Sedation or anesthesia administered
  • Patient lies on left side
  • Colonoscope inserted through rectum
  • Air insufflated to expand colon
  • Camera examines entire colon

What to Expect

  • • Procedure takes 30-60 minutes
  • • Mild discomfort possible
  • • No pain due to sedation
  • • Biopsies can be taken if needed
  • • Polyps can be removed during procedure

After the Procedure

Recovery

  • Rest in recovery room for 1-2 hours
  • May feel bloated from air insufflation
  • Mild cramping or gas pains normal
  • Cannot drive for 24 hours if sedated

Follow-up

  • Discuss results with doctor
  • Receive biopsy results in 1-2 weeks
  • Schedule follow-up colonoscopy if needed
  • Resume normal activities next day

Rectal & Pelvic Organ Prolapse

What is Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal Prolapse is a condition in which the Rectum (the lower end of the intestine) stretches out and protrudes out of the anus.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is a condition where the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs (Vagina, Uterus, Bladder, and Rectum) become stretched or weakened, causing these organs to drop downward or bulge into the vagina.

Types

  • • Uterine Prolapse: Descent of the uterus.
  • • Cystocele / Urinary Bladder Prolapse: Descent of the urinary bladder.
  • • Rectocele / Rectal Prolapse: Descent or protrusion of the rectum.

Symptoms

  • • Pain
  • • Bleeding
  • • Mucus Discharge
  • • Fecal Incontinence
  • • Something coming out from the anus

Causes

Physiological Causes
  • • Damage to the pelvic floor during childbirth
  • • Weakening of the muscles supporting the pelvic organs (with age)
  • • Chronic Constipation (repeated straining)
  • • Chronic Cough (such as from asthma)
  • • Heavy lifting
  • • Obesity
Involuntary Factors

Various involuntary factors can contribute to prolapse development.

Investigation

  • • Per Rectal Examination
  • • MRI Defecography
  • • Clinical examination of the anus and vagina

Treatment

Primary Stage

Treatment using Physiotherapy (Biofeedback) and Exercises only.

Surgical Treatment
  • • STARR Surgery / Minimal Invasive Surgery
  • • POPS (Pelvic Organ Prolapse Suspension)
  • • Vaginal Surgery / Uterine Prolapse Surgery
  • • Abdominal Surgery (sacrocolpopexy)
  • • Laparoscopic Surgery/Pexy

Note: Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy is a must after Rectal Prolapse Surgery to strengthen the Pelvic Floor.

Complications of Colonoscopy

Bleeding

Bleeding from biopsy sites or polyp removal, usually minor and self-limiting.

Perforation

Rare tear in the colon wall requiring immediate surgical repair.

Infection

Bacterial infection, though rare with proper sterilization procedures.

Adverse Reaction to Sedation

Allergic reactions or breathing difficulties from anesthesia.

Missed Polyps or Cancer

Though rare, small lesions might be missed during examination.

Myths and Facts About Colonoscopy

Myth: Colonoscopy is extremely painful

Fact: With proper sedation, most patients feel no pain and may even sleep through the procedure.

Myth: The preparation is worse than the procedure

Fact: While bowel prep can be uncomfortable, it's necessary for accurate results and most patients tolerate it well.

Myth: Colonoscopy always requires hospitalization

Fact: Most colonoscopies are outpatient procedures with same-day discharge.

Myth: Virtual colonoscopy is as good as traditional colonoscopy

Fact: While CT colonography is useful for some patients, traditional colonoscopy allows for biopsy and polyp removal.

Patient Stories

Early Detection Saved My Life

"I was asymptomatic, but my screening colonoscopy detected precancerous polyps. Removal prevented what could have been colon cancer!"

- Ramesh K., 52 years old, Teacher

Peace of Mind After Procedure

"I was nervous about the prep, but the procedure was quick and painless. So glad I did it for my family's sake."

- Sunita M., 48 years old, Homemaker

Share Your Story

Have you undergone colonoscopy? Your experience could help others. Contact us to share your journey.

Dr. Jaya Explains Colonoscopy

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Video: Colonoscopy Procedure - What to Expect

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In this comprehensive video, Dr. Jaya walks you through the entire colonoscopy process, from preparation to recovery, addressing common fears and explaining why regular screening is crucial for colorectal health.

Risks and Complications

Colonoscopy is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. Most complications are rare and usually minor.

Common Side Effects

Bloating, gas, mild cramping, and temporary changes in bowel habits.

Rare Complications

Bleeding from biopsy sites, perforation of the colon wall, or adverse reactions to sedation.

When to Seek Medical Help

Severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, fever, or signs of infection after the procedure.

Dr. Jaya - Colonoscopy Specialist

Expertise & Experience

  • • 15+ years in gastroenterology
  • • 5000+ colonoscopies performed
  • • Advanced endoscopy training
  • • Polypectomy and EMR specialist

Special Achievements

  • • 98% polyp detection rate
  • • Minimal sedation complications
  • • International endoscopy certifications
  • • Research on colorectal cancer screening
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Dr. Jaya's Interview

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Watch Dr. Jaya discuss colonoscopy screening guidelines and why early detection saves lives.

Need Help?

Consult our specialists for colonoscopy preparation and procedure.

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📧 info@drjaya.com

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