Colonoscopy for Screening the Inner Lining of the Rectum and Colon

Colonoscopy is a diagnostic method that aims at screening the inner lining of the rectum and colon and this is completed by the aid of a colonoscope.

A colonoscope is a slender, lengthened, flexible tube, which is about 48 to 72 inches long that aids in diagnosing polyps,

ulcers, tumors and inflammations like abnormal growth, peptic ulcers, tissue swelling and rectal bleeding. Early symptoms of colon and rectal cancer and pre-cancerous growth are noticed by colonoscopy. The basis behind changes is bowel movements accompanied by loss of weight. It is also used to identify and eradicate pre-cancerous growth of colon and rectum.

Any mal-functioning of the abdomen leading to dyspepsia and diarrhea and is noticed in an X-ray is further investigated. This investigation colonoscopy procedure is particularly recommended for people, whose probability of having colon cancer or polyps is more and in people, who have experienced in the past. Photographic or video images of the intestine are taken by the camera of the colonoscope, hence providing a vivacious picture of the area of mal-functioning. Fiber optics are occasionally made use of, though, modern science has replaced them for digital video technology.

Sigmoidoscopy projects the rectum and the lower colon while colonoscopy visualizes the complete colon and small parts of the small intestine.

This diagnostic process necessitates almost an hour for absolute evaluation. The analgesics i.e. the pain killers and tranquilizers whose outcome remains for almost an hour helps in giving relief from the

agony pain and soreness. A feeling of flatulence is felt for an hour, after colonoscopy. Prior to colonoscopy, colon preparation needs 1 to 2 days. It is a very strenuous procedure, as it engages complete removal of bowels. Staying at home, during pre-preparation is recommended, as regular visits to the toilet are required. A clear liquid diet is suggested and hence hunger feeling is greatly felt. This process is a great discomfort, as regular loose stool evacuation is done, ensuing in an empty stomach. Clear fruit juices and soft drinks are advised, as a pre-preparation process.

Virtual colonoscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic method that uses a modified version of the nuclear magnetic resonance or NMR or computed tomography or CT hence making use of 2 and 3 dimensional images in deriving an image of the rectal and anal lining. The causative factor of a tumor, swelling and incontinence is identified. Small lesions or bruises, less than 5 millimeters cannot be visualized. Virtual colonoscopy does not ease the removal of tumor or biopsy. This technique needs an hour before bowel gets evacuated.