Medical technology: What is colonoscopy, under what conditions is it done?

 Medical technology: What is colonoscopy, under what conditions is it done?

A colonoscope is a type of medical device. The technique of inspecting and analyzing the lower part of the large intestine using it is called colonoscopy. With the help of this, the structure, conditions, diseases, treatment and prevention of the large intestine are obtained.

During this test, the anus, rectum, sigmoid and the lower part of the large intestine are also examined. Which helps to detect from the growth of meat to cancer here.

How is this tool?

During a colonoscopy, a long and flexible tube with a light attached called a colonoscope is used. Which is tested through the anus to the lower part of the large intestine. A camera and a bright light are also attached to the colonoscope tube. So that part of the intestine can be seen in the camera with the help of light.

When is this test required?

Stomach problems

If you have constant stomach pain but the cause is not found, a colonoscopy is done to see if there is a problem in the large intestine. Similarly, if there is weight loss for no reason or if blood is seen in the stool, a colonoscopy is done to see if there is a problem in the intestine. It is also tested in people with constipation and loose stools.

In some cases, colonoscopy is done to see if the bleeding is in the intestines.

Family history of cancer

If someone in the family has colon cancer, it cannot be said that other members will not have the same cancer. Therefore, to avoid this risk, a mandatory colonoscopy should be done once a year.

to detect cancer

Colonoscopy is an important tool for detecting colon cancer. It helps in early detection of cancer even if it looks suspicious. Because a biopsy can be taken for meat examination during colonoscopy.

Cancer surveillance

A person who has already developed colon cancer or has some type of abnormal growth may need to have a colonoscopy several times to observe the growth and effect of the growth.

To locate and remove meat from the large intestine

Colonoscopy not only detects the mass in the large intestine, but also removes it. Screening and therapeutic colonoscopy is also called screening and therapeutic colonoscopy even if the lump needs to be removed along with identification.

Some lumps of flesh that grow abnormally in the large intestine can later turn into cancer. If the lump looks suspicious like cancer, it can be removed while undergoing colonoscopy.

Postoperative monitoring

Colonoscopy may be needed to ensure proper treatment and to monitor for any problems, even if large bowel surgery has been performed. Which the doctor can call for examination after looking at the condition.

Mandatory checkup required after age 45

It is not possible to tell how long the problem will be in the intestines. With age, the large intestine does not have the same working power as it used to. Therefore, it is advisable to have a mandatory colonoscopy every 10 years after the age of 45 to find out if there is a problem with the intestines.

After 45 years, this test has become mandatory in European and American countries. The American Society of Cancer has also recommended that testing be mandatory after 45 years of age to avoid the risk of colon cancer.

But in Nepal, colonoscopy is performed when no disease is detected but the pain is crippling. Because of this, identification and treatment can become slow and complicated. Just like regular routine urine, stool and blood tests, it is necessary to have regular check-ups for those over 45 years of age in Nepal.

Things to consider before colonoscopy

- Before colonoscopy, if you have pregnancy, lung, heart problems, bleeding diseases and allergies to any medicine, you should tell the doctor in advance, so that the conditions and precautions for colonoscopy can be taken in time.

- Doctors advise not to eat anything before colonoscopy. Because the intestines must be clean during this test. And only the expected part can be clearly seen. If it is found that stool is due to excess food, it is not possible to do colonoscopy on that day.

- It is allowed to wear a hospital gown before going for colonoscopy. Wearing this gown makes the test easier.

Who does colonoscopy?

A gastroenterologist (digestive system specialist) or a colorectal surgeon (digestive tract surgeon) can both perform a colonoscopy.

During a colonoscopy

When you reach the examination room, you are made to lie on one side on a stretcher or bed. Then the colonoscope is slowly inserted from the anus to the lower part of the large intestine and the situation is analyzed.

During colonoscopy, carbon dioxide gas is used to inflate the intestines. So it can feel like a little bit of gas. It takes 15 to 30 minutes to perform this test.

How much pain?

During the colonoscopy examination, the part of the anus is stretched to avoid pain. But due to carbon dioxide, the stomach may feel bloated. Inserting the colonoscopy tube may be uncomfortable at first.

What are the side-effects?

Colonoscopy is a safe procedure. Its side-effects are rare. Some may feel lightheaded, tired, and dizzy after the test. Which heals in a few moments. But some people may experience mild sores, perforations, infections and bleeding on the intestinal wall after colonoscopy.

When will the report come?

It doesn't take long to get the report after the colonoscopy. The results of the test will come in a short time. But if something seems suspicious, the relevant medical team may have to analyze it. It may take some time because of J.

How much is the fee?

The cost of colonoscopy test may be 4 to 5 thousand. However, government and private hospitals set their own fees.