Colonoscopy is the test of choice for diagnosing and investigating symptoms and diseases of the colon and the final part of the small intestine. It is the test of choice for the detection of polyps (precancerous lesions) and colorectal cancer, as well as for the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis).
To perform colonoscopy, a thin flexible rubber tube (colonoscope) with a diameter of 12mm and a camera on its tip is inserted through the anal ring into the colon. During the examination, air is blown into the colon to dilate it for better visualisation of the mucosa and detection of microscopic lesions. When necessary, the doctor may take biopsies. which is safe and painless, from any abnormal areas for further laboratory analysis.
It is a safe test lasting about 20-30 minutes. The patient may feel slight pain during the examination, so light anaesthesia is usually administered before the procedure.
Is an examination necessary?
Colonoscopy is the best screening test for early detection and diagnosis of dangerous conditions such as polyps and colorectal cancer, which can be fully cured if treated early.
It is therefore an examination that allows not only the taking of biopsies but also simultaneous treatment, such as direct removal of polyps, cauterization of angiodysplasias, various laser applications.
Apart from colon cancer, other conditions that are diagnosed include inflammation of the colon, diverticulomas in the colon and the possibility of diagnosing the causes of bleeding in the colon area.
Preparing for the examination
The doctor will take your medical history and look at your tests. Don't forget to mention any respiratory, cardiac, neurological or psychiatric problems, allergies and any medications you are taking. Mention if you have prostate, glaucoma, diabetes and if you are taking aspirin, antiplatelet or blood thinners.
BEFORE THE EXAMINATION
It is very important that the bowel is clean of faeces so that we can detect even small lesions, and to avoid complications during the examination. For 4 days before the test it is necessary to modify the diet to a low residue diet, , and on the eve and day of the test the patient should take a strong laxative to cleanse the bowel. The type of preparation can be modified according to the patient, his age, coexisting diseases and bowel habits.
The patient must fast for at least 8 hours before the test without eating any solid food. Water or other clear liquids (coffee/tea/juice; no milk) may be consumed up to 2 hours before the examination.
- If you are taking anticoagulant medication, you should inform the doctor so that he or she can advise how many days before the test you should stop taking it.
- If you are taking medication for diabetes mellitus, do not take any medication while you are fasting before the test. It is a good idea to measure your blood sugar 30 minutes before you come in. If it is too low you can take a candy or drink some juice to avoid any hypoglycaemia.
- All other medicines can be taken with a little water up to 2 hours before the test.
It is recommended that you have an escort during your visit to the clinic since you are not allowed to drive after the test and you will feel slightly dizzy for a few hours after the test in case of intoxication.
ENDOSCOPY ROOM
You will be asked on your left side. If sedation is desired for the examination, a flexible vein catheter will be placed in your right arm, which will remain in place throughout the examination so that a light sedation (intoxication) can be administered if necessary. We will place a blood pressure monitor and oximeter in your arm, through which we will monitor your vital signs (blood pressure/oxygen saturation/ pulse) during the examination.
Then the colonoscope, coated with a lubricant, is advanced into the intestine to perform the examination. During the examination, you may be asked to lie on your back or right side to facilitate the entry of the endoscope.
At the end of the examination, the doctor will remove the instrument. Do not rush to get out of bed on your own, only after the doctor or nursing staff have instructed you to do so. At the end, the phlebotomist will remove the venipuncture device.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS FROM THE EXAMINATION?
Colonoscopy is a safe test. Rarely, and especially after invasive procedures, perforation or bleeding may occur, which usually stops on its own or by the endoscope.
If sedation (intoxication) is given, transient vein irritation, allergy to the intravenous drugs administered and rarely cardiorespiratory complications, especially in patients with pre-existing health problems, may occur.
AFTER THE EXAMINATION
The doctor will give you the results of the test, tell you if he or she took biopsies and when you will get the biopsy results. If necessary, he or she will give you treatment. Ask him or her when you can resume your daily medications. Agree if and when the test will be repeated.
BACK HOME
It is advisable to be accompanied by an adult, especially in case of intoxication, as you are expected to feel slightly dizzy for a few hours after the test.
If you are intoxicated, you are not allowed to drive, drink alcohol or sign important documents for up to 24 hours after the test.
You can eat or drink something usually 30 minutes to an hour after the end of the test.
Do not drink alcohol
