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What is Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a test to look in the large intestine (colon) and rectum.During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) with a camera at the tip is inserted into the rectum to view the inside of the entire colon and terminal Ileum.

Risks A colonoscopy poses few risks. Rarely, complications of a colonoscopy may occur which are as follows

• Sedation related adverse event reactions
• Bleeding from the site of biopsy or polyp removal
• A tear in the wall of colon or rectum (perforation).
• • After discussing the risks of colonoscopy with you, your doctor will ask you to sign a consent form giving permission for the procedure.

Before the procedure – Preparing for Colonoscopy

Before a colonoscopy, you'll need to clean out (empty) your colon. Any residue in your colon may make it difficult to get a good view of your colon and rectum during the exam. To empty your colon, your doctor may ask you to:

• Change your diet before the procedure : Typically, you won't be able to eat solid food the day before the exam. Drinks may be limited to clear liquids — plain water, Coconut water, juices ,tea and coffee without milk or cream, broth, and carbonated beverages. Avoid red colored liquids which may be mistaken for blood in the colon.
• Bowel preparation - Take a laxative. Your doctor will usually recommend taking a large volume laxative to clear out your bowels night before the exam. Sometimes, doctor may ask to use the laxative even multiple times before the procedure to ensure bowels have been prepped adequately for the procedure .
• A well prepared colon ensures a good colonoscopy experience both for the doctor and the patient. A well prepared colon allows easy manipulation of colonoscope in the colon, allows of better visualisation and reduces procedure time.
• The doctor may adjust your medications if you are taking any blood thinner, diabetes or Hypertension ( BP) medications. You may need to adjust your dosages or stop taking the medications temporarily so please inform the doctor about the medicines before going in for a colonoscopy.

What can you expect during the procedure:You may receive light sedation or anesthesia depending upon your request. You will be asked to lie on your side on the table with your knees drawn toward your chest. The doctor will insert a colonoscope into your rectum.The scope contains a light and a tube (channel) that allows the doctor to pump air, carbon dioxide or water into your colon. The air or carbon dioxide inflates the colon, which provides a better view of the colon.

When the scope is moved or air is introduced, you may feel stomach cramping or the urge to pass motions however that is expected and doctor will guide you through it.

The colonoscope also contains a tiny video camera at its tip. The camera sends images to an external monitor so that the doctor can study the inside of your colon.

The doctor can also insert instruments through the channel to take tissue samples (biopsies) or remove polyps or other areas of abnormal tissue.

A colonoscopy typically takes about 20-30 minutes.

After the Colonoscopy

You'll be taken to a recovery area to sit or lie quietly after the procedure. During this time, your health care team can monitor you as the sedative begins to wear off.

You can eat approximately 30 minutes after endoscopy if general anesthesia has not been given.If anesthesia has been given, follow the advice of anesthetist.

You may also notice a small amount of blood with your first bowel movement after the exam. Usually this isn't cause for alarm. Consult your doctor if you continue to pass blood or blood clots or if you have persistent abdominal pain or a fever.

Once you're at home, you may experience some mildly uncomfortable symptoms like excessive flatulence, bloating or gas, abdominal cramps. These signs and symptoms will improve with time. If you're concerned or quite uncomfortable, call your health care provider.

Results :Usually, the doctor shares the results after the procedure. If a tissue sample (biopsy) was collected, you may need to wait a few days to get results from the testing laboratory. If any other therapeutic procedure is performed then the doctor will inform you about it.