Colonoscopy is also known as colonoscopy in medical terminology and is used for the early detection of colorectal cancer. During this examination, the colon is examined with the help of a special endoscope – this is inserted into the intestine through the anus. The colonoscope has a light source as well as a camera so that the intestine can be viewed in detail. In addition, the attending physician can even use this device to take tissue samples or perform minor operations. This tube is about ten to 15 millimeters thick.
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Schmatic representation of colonoscopy. Click to enlarge.
All people over the age of 55 can have a colonoscopy once a year as part of early cancer detection – health insurance companies cover the costs.
Colonoscopy is mainly used as part of the early detection of colorectal cancer, but it is also used to detect numerous other diseases. In the case of diarrhea and constipation, for example, and also in the case of pain in the abdomen, a colonoscopy is just as frequently ordered in order to clarify the causes.
However, colonoscopy can detect not only colon cancer, but also other diseases of the digestive tract. Intestinal polyps, for example, which are generally regarded as a precursor to colorectal cancer, are detected by this method, as are inflammations of the intestinal wall.
The colonoscopy itself only takes about 15 to 30 minutes and is far less painful than is generally assumed. One day before the examination, the patient is given a laxative so that the intestines are thoroughly cleansed of food residues. One should also drink a lot before a colonoscopy. On the morning of the procedure, nothing should be eaten; instead, the patient is given an irrigation solution containing minerals. The intestine is cleaned with the help of this until it excretes only clear liquid.
During the procedure, the doctor carefully pushes the endoscope into the anus; from there, it passes through the rectum into the colon. Usually some air is blown in – this unfolds the colon and makes it easier for the doctor to see. The colonoscope is so flexible and bendable that it can be inserted as far as the mouth of the colon into the small intestine, and even a few centimeters into the small intestine if necessary.
Because most patients find the procedure quite uncomfortable, a mild sedative may be beneficial.
Side effects and risks
Side effects and risks associated with colonoscopy are extremely rare, but may occur in isolated cases. A puncture of the intestinal wall, called perforation, can be a risk of this examination. This could lead to an inflammation of the peritoneum in the further course. If this is the case, another quick operation is immediately necessary. This type of complication occurs in one out of 4,000 colonoscopies – i.e. a fairly low percentage.
Furthermore, secondary bleeding is possible – it is particularly common when intestinal polyps have been removed. Bruising in the intestinal tract is also a possible risk in the course of a colonoscopy – although these can be quite painful, they pass by themselves after a few days and are usually harmless to the body.
A possible danger also comes from the sedatives that may be prescribed before the procedure. By no means should you therefore drive after the examination, but if in doubt, have yourself picked up.
