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The medical procedure to examine the inside of your entire colon (large intestine) is called Colonoscopy. This procedure uses a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope inserted in the rectum, which has a tiny camera that helps examine the inside of the colon. This procedure looks for abnormalities or changes in the colon, such as swollen, irritated tissues, polyps, or tumours. This crucial procedure helps in diagnosing gastrointestinal diseases like inflammatory bowel diseases and colon cancer.
Colonoscopy is beneficial for the early detection and prevention of colon cancer. Along with the removal of precancerous polyps or other abnormalities, it can also help in taking tissue samples for biopsies. The procedure is carried out under sedation, and the patient can go home the same day.
The team of doctors at Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, are trained and experienced in effectively conducting Colonoscopy procedures with precision. We use cutting-edge facilities and advanced techniques for accurate results and enhanced procedure outcomes, thereby minimising its associated risks. Our doctors recommend routine Colonoscopy screenings for middle-aged and older adults or those with a family history to rule out the possibility of colon cancer.
Colonoscopy can be used for therapeutic, screening, or diagnostic purposes, depending on your medical needs. It's recommended in the following cases:
Screening for colon cancer
Diagnosing and removing colorectal polyps and any additional polyps in follow-ups
Investigate and diagnose the causes of intestinal signs and symptoms, as this procedure gives a better view of the large intestine in comparison to other imaging tests. Unexplained symptoms that may require a Colonoscopy are:
Rectal bleeding or discharge
Persistent abdominal pain
Rapid weight loss or lack of weight gain in children
Changes in your bowel habits, like diarrhoea, constipation, or incontinence
Diagnosis of various conditions or diseases, like
Ulcers
Large bowel obstructions
Chronic colitis
Intestinal ischaemia and ischaemic colitis
Diverticulosis and diverticulitis
Treating minor intestinal issues with procedures during a Colonoscopy. Such as removing polyps (Polypectomy), sealing wounds, placing stents, removing blockages, injecting medications, and treating tissues with Laser Therapy.
Colorectal cancer does not show any symptoms in its initial stages until it gets too advanced, making its treatment challenging. Thus, doctors recommend regular screening for colorectal cancer through a Colonoscopy if you are at increased risk of developing this cancer. You must undergo a Colonoscopy for cancer screening if you are:
Older than 45 years
Haven't undergone screening in the last 10 years
Have a family history of colorectal cancer
Have you undergone a suspicious tissue removal during your last Colonoscopy
Have inflammatory bowel disease
Have an inherited disease that increases your risk, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous.
Seek consultation with our doctors today to undergo a screening Colonoscopy for colorectal cancer and minimise your risk of developing this cancer.
It is a safe procedure, but in rare cases, it can cause some complications, such as:
There can be some more risks, depending on your medical condition. Ask your doctor about all the possible risks before undergoing the procedure.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy is crucial for the success of the procedure.
You will get detailed instructions to follow in the days before your appointment.
Your colon should be empty and clean to get a good view during the exam.
You will have to follow a special diet, like a low-fibre diet, the days before the Colonoscopy exam. Then you will need to be on a liquid diet a day before the exam, like water, juice, and coffee without milk. In addition, you must not eat or drink the night before the exam.
You will be recommended to take a prescription laxative the night before the procedure or as instructed.
Your ongoing medications will be adjusted, so inform the doctor beforehand about all the medications you are consuming.
Inform the doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders or are pregnant.
During a Colonoscopy, you'll wear a gown and an IV line will be installed into your arm.
Sedation, along with pain medication or general anaesthesia, is usually recommended. It will be decided based on your body and needs.
You will have to lie on your side, usually with your knees drawn towards your chest.
A colonoscope will be inserted into your rectum by the physician.
The colonoscope is a long and flexible tube with a light and a camera attached to it. It is long enough to reach the entire length of your colon.
The doctor then pumps air, carbon dioxide, or water into your colon.
This air or gas inflates the colon for a better view of the lining.
You might have the urge to go to the toilet or experience stomach cramps when the scope is repositioned or air is introduced.
In order for the physician to examine the inside of your colon, the camera transmits pictures to an external monitor.
The doctor will watch for any abnormalities and, if needed, can also use instruments to take tissue samples (biopsies) or remove polyps and abnormal tissue.
A Colonoscopy typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
It takes almost an hour to fully recover from the sedation after the exam.
Your vital signs and any signs of complications will be monitored.
You will be discharged when you wake up and if all looks well.
You will need someone to drive you home, as the effects of the sedative will be there for some time.
You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the exam due to the air in your colon, but walking can help relieve any discomfort.
You might see a small amount of blood in your first bowel movement after the exam. This is usually not a cause for concern.
Contact your doctor if you continue to pass blood or blood clots, or if you have persistent abdominal pain or a fever.
While rare, these symptoms can occur immediately or within the first few days after the procedure or may be delayed up to 1 to 2 weeks.
Suppose the results are negative and your doctor doesn’t find any abnormalities in the colon. In that case, you will be recommended to undergo another Colonoscopy after 1-10 years, depending on your condition and other factors. You will get the results if any suspicious tissue or polyps are removed in a few days.
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