Colonoscopy

What is a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a procedure performed with an imaging system used to examine problems in the large intestine and rectum. The application is done with a hose that can be bent and has a high-definition camera at the end. This instrument is approximately the thickness of a finger and allows the entire large intestine to be viewed on the monitor.

In many European countries and the United States, colonoscopy is among the standards of the check-up program for individuals over the age of 50. According to the results of scientific studies, it is stated that colonoscopy follow-ups performed at 3-5 year intervals reduce the risk of death from colon cancer by 75%.

Colonoscopy is not only used for diagnosis. It can also be applied for therapeutic purposes such as stopping bleeding in the inner wall of the colon with colonoscopy and stenting due to stenosis in the colon.

Why is a colonoscopy done?

Colonoscopy is performed to investigate intestinal-related symptoms, to detect colon cancer and to examine the presence of polyps, in cases of prolonged constipation or diarrhea and bleeding from the anus. Colonoscopy is also used for anemia and infections of unknown origin.

Colonoscopy is one of the imaging methods applied for diagnosis and treatment. As it can be used in the diagnosis of many intestinal diseases, it can also be aimed to perform pathological examination by taking a piece. If necessary, it is also possible to take photographs of the internal organs.

If a tumorous mass in the large intestine is suspected or the cause of rectal bleeding cannot be determined, the most definitive diagnosis is made by colonoscopy.

One of the main causes of colon cancer is small and benign tumors called polyps. However, these tumors can grow over time, gain bad features and become cancerous. In the colonoscopy method, these tumors, called polyps, can be removed and the patient can be treated.

Nutrition Before Colonoscopy

It is important that the intestines are empty for a comfortable and successful colonoscopy. For this, nutrition before colonoscopy is important. In this diet, which is called the colonoscopy diet, one week before the procedure, one week before the procedure, one should stay away from crusty foods and grain foods, and high-fiber foods should not be eaten. Unshelled fruits and vegetables, chicken, fish, rice, pasta and eggs are edible.

Milk and dairy products do not stay in the intestine for a long time and are quickly absorbed. There is no harm in consuming these foods before the procedure. In addition, red meat and white meat can also be consumed.

All soft foods should be eaten 48 hours before the colonoscopy. These are vegetable puree, soup and omelet-style foods. Boiled and baked dishes can be preferred, but solid foods should not be consumed. Especially during this period, fluid intake should be increased and metabolism should be accelerated. Medications such as laxatives can be used with the advice of a doctor the day before the colonoscopy.

On the day of the procedure, nothing should be eaten. Since anesthesia will be applied, products such as cigarettes should be avoided.

How is a colonoscopy done?

First of all, the patient’s blood pressure is measured on the relevant day and time given for colonoscopy. Then the patient is dressed in shorts that will allow the procedure to be performed. After the vascular access is established, the patient is placed on his left side. Drugs given intravenously make the patient feel as little pain as possible. General anesthesia is not applied to the patient unless it is very necessary.

After the examination in the colonoscopy procedure, the camera colonoscopy instrument is carefully pushed into the anus. Starting from the rectum with a colonoscopy device, the rectum, rectosigmoid region, sigmoid colon, descending colon, transverse colon, ascending colon are passed, and finally the cecum is reached. The status of all zones is monitored on the monitor.

Samples can be taken for pathological examination if needed during the colonoscopy procedure. In addition, if polyps, lesions and small tumors are observed that may cause major problems for the patient later on, these can be removed during the colonoscopic examination. This type of procedure is very easy and painless.

Considerations After Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy may take 15 minutes or 60 minutes depending on the problem in the intestines and the area to be examined. Since sedatives are given during the procedure, it is recommended not to drive that day. With the effect of the drug, the patient’s reflexes decrease, he feels tired and his instinct to make a healthy decision can be suppressed.

In addition, the patient should not go to work on the day of the procedure, should not take important decisions and responsibilities, and should not drink alcohol. There may be a short-term gas complaint after the procedure. However, this is due to the air given for better observation of the intestine. Therefore, the patient should avoid foods that cause gas throughout the day.

Since some drugs are given to the patient during colonoscopy, pain and pain are not felt. Thanks to these drugs, the procedure can be performed in an extremely comfortable way. In addition, some methods are used to facilitate the entry of the colonoscope into the intestines, ensuring that the patient is comfortable and not suffering.

How many hours after a colonoscopy to eat?

You can start eating light foods 1 hour after the colonoscopy. It would be healthier not to burden the stomach and intestines at once. You can eat with light foods that are easily digested and satisfy your hunger. It is recommended that you rest a lot, as well as eat, to counteract the effects of the drugs given during the procedure.

How long does a colonoscopy take?

Colonoscopy is a procedure that takes between 15 minutes and 1 hour. The duration of the procedure may vary according to the area to be examined, the problem experienced by the patient and the tissues seen. Because sometimes tissues such as pieces or polyps can be taken from the examined area. These procedures may prolong the duration of colonoscopy.

How many days rest after colonoscopy?

You only need to rest for 1 day after colonoscopy. On the day of the procedure, the body should not get tired, the car should not be driven and should not go to work. By resting at home on the day of the procedure, you can remove the effect of colonoscopy drugs from the body and regain strength. You can also take the effect of the diet made before the colonoscopy by eating regularly.

What diseases occur in colonoscopy?

Intestinal diseases, colon cancer and polyps can be revealed in colonoscopy. Since the inside of the intestines can be observed completely, the detection of previously unknown intestinal problems can be made easily. Those with risk and suspicion of disease should have regular colonoscopy.