A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum). It is considered the gold standard for diagnosing and monitoring conditions affecting the colon and is often performed as part of routine screening or to investigate specific symptoms.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy involves the use of a flexible, thin tube called a colonoscope, equipped with a camera and light, which is inserted through the rectum to view the entire colon. The procedure allows for real-time visualisation of the intestinal lining and the ability to perform therapeutic interventions, such as removing polyps or taking tissue biopsies.
The procedure is typically done under sedation to ensure patient comfort.
Why Do You Do This Procedure?
Colonoscopy is performed for several reasons, including:
- Screening for colorectal cancer: It is recommended for individuals over 50 or those with a family history of bowel cancer.
- Diagnosing symptoms: To investigate unexplained abdominal pain, chronic diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits.
- Monitoring inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): To assess disease severity or monitor response to treatment.
- Polyp removal: To prevent the progression of polyps into cancer.
- Evaluating anaemia: To identify potential sources of gastrointestinal bleeding.
When Does This Procedure Happen?
Colonoscopy is performed:
- As part of routine screening for colorectal cancer, typically starting at age 50 or earlier for high-risk individuals.
- When symptoms such as blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, or persistent abdominal discomfort occur.
- To follow up on abnormal findings from other tests, such as a positive faecal occult blood test (FOBT) or imaging results.
- During surveillance in patients with a history of polyps, colorectal cancer, or chronic bowel diseases like IBD.
What Condition Does This Treat?
Colonoscopy can aid in the diagnosis and treatment of:
- Colorectal cancer: Early detection and removal of precancerous polyps can prevent cancer development.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis): To assess inflammation and complications.
- Diverticulosis and diverticulitis: To identify and monitor affected areas.
- Polyps: Removal during the procedure reduces cancer risk.
- Gastrointestinal bleeding: To locate and potentially treat the source of bleeding.
- Bowel obstructions or strictures: To diagnose and sometimes treat narrowing of the colon.
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