Colonoscopic findings

COLONOSCOPY OVERVIEW — A colonoscopy is an exam of the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract, which is called the colon or large intestine (bowel). Colonoscopy is a safe procedure that provides information other tests may not be able to give.Colonoscopy is performed by inserting a device called a colonoscope into the anus and advanced through the entire colon. The procedure generally takes between 20 minutes and 1 hour.REASONS FOR COLONOSCOPY — The most common reasons for colonoscopy are to evaluate the following:•As a screening exam for colon cancer •Rectal bleeding •A change in bowel habits, like persistent diarrhea •Iron deficiency anemia (a decrease in blood count due to loss of iron) •A family history of colon cancer •As a follow-up test in people with colon polyps or colon cancer •Chronic, unexplained abdominal or rectal pain •An abnormal X-ray exam, like a barium enema or CT scanTHERAPEUTIC COLONOSCOPYThe most common reasons are the following: Polypectomy, Band ligation of hemorrhoids, Injection or cautery techniques for the treatment of diverticullum with active bleeding or a visible vessel or a vascular ectasia.COLONOSCOPY COMPLICATIONS — Colonoscopy is a safe procedure, and complications are rare but can occur:•Bleeding can occur from biopsies or the removal of polyps, but it is usually minimal and can be controlled. •The colonoscope can cause a tear or hole in the colon. This is a serious problem, but it does not happen commonly. •It is possible to have side effects from the sedative medicines. Although colonoscopy is the best test to examine the colon, it is possible for even the most skilled doctors to miss or overlook an abnormal area in the colon.