The Facts About A Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a rectal exam that evaluates the health of the colon. The colon, also known as the large intestine, is part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The colon processes food into waste and issues with the colon can lead to constipation, diarrhea, or colorectal cancer. During a colonoscopy, the doctor inserts a colonoscope into the rectum to locate any damaged tissues, polyps, or cancerous growths within the colon.
Are colonoscopies painful?
There is some mild discomfort associated with a colonoscopy considering the fact that an endoscope is being inserted into the rectum to the intestine. An endoscope is a long, thin tube with a camera attached at the end to view the internal organs. Some patients experience bloating and cramping during or after the procedure. To ease any discomfort, medication is used before the procedure to sedate the patient. Consequently, scientists have been experimenting with different ways to perform a colonoscopy without hurting the patient.
Consider a virtual colonoscopy
A virtual colonoscopy, also known as a CT colonography, uses a computed tomography (CT) scan to take photographic images of the colon to identify any unusual growths or signs of colorectal cancer. The CT scanner takes 2-D and 3-D images of the stomach and pelvis that are later sent to a radiologist for further examination. The process lasts for approximately 15 minutes. Patients lay on an examination table while technicians insert a 2-inch tube into the rectum to take CT scan images.
Benefits of a virtual colonoscopy
A traditional colonoscopy can take up to 45 minutes with 15 minutes being dedicated to inserting and removing the colonoscope. The colonoscope is about 4 feet long and has the width of a finger. A virtual colonoscopy takes half the time of the traditional colonoscopy, and the tube used for the procedure is much shorter. This reduces the risk of injury to the colon and the rectum. Patients also experience less discomfort during the CT colonography. Furthermore, patients don’t have to take any medication before or after the procedure, so there’s no need for recovery time.
Minimally invasive colorectal surgery
When doctors find polyps or cancerous growths on the colon, surgery must be performed. Now, surgeons are using minimally invasive techniques to perform colon surgery. A colectomy is the surgical removal of a portion of the colon. Minimally invasive colectomy techniques involve smaller incisions and a laparoscope or robotic assistance.
Working with a professional
Colonoscopies are performed by gastroenterologists who are experts on the digestive tract. Patients with any concerns regarding a colonoscopy should talk to an experienced gastroenterologist. The doctor will discuss traditional colonoscopy procedures and address any of the patient’s concerns. Doctors will also know about advanced colonoscopy techniques and technology along with how these procedures can benefit the patient.
