A colonoscopy lets your doctor look at the lining of your colon and rectum. It can find precancerous growths called polyps, which can eventually turn into cancer. The procedure requires a complete bowel prep and light to moderate sedation. You may experience cramping or feel bloated after the exam, but this should go away as you pass gas.
Prevents Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is a fatal disease that can be prevented through screening. Gastroenterology Of The Rockies Colonoscopy Denver is a diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive procedure all in one, and it is more effective than waiting for symptoms to appear. The process is painless, quick, and relatively straightforward, allowing doctors to examine the inside lining of your large intestine (colon). Gastroenterologists were surprised by the less-than-expected benefits of screening colonoscopies reported in a recent study. The randomized trial, considered the gold standard for testing medical interventions, included individuals who were randomly invited to undergo a colonoscopy or receive routine care without the test. The results indicated that only 42% of those invited to experience a colonoscopy opted to do so. The analysis revealed that the trial decreased the risk of developing colorectal cancer by 18%, but there was no reduction in the risk of death related to colorectal cancer.
Finds Polyps
A colonoscopy uses a lighted camera to look inside your large intestine (colon) for polyps growths that may eventually become cancerous. It’s also the best way to check for inflammatory pseudopolyps, bump-like scars that can form in response to chronic inflammation in the colon, usually related to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A doctor inserts the colonoscope into the anus and moves it through your rectum and colon. The doctor can inflate the colon with air to get a better view, then use instruments at the end of the scope to do biopsies and remove polyps. The doctor can also check for blood or other abnormalities. The earlier a polyp is removed, the less likely it is to turn cancerous. Most polyps are harmless, but adenomatous polyps 10 mm or more prominent may develop into precancerous or cancerous tumors. A polypectomy is surgery to remove the polyps and a small piece of tissue around them. Some people who have polyps may need follow-up screenings to find out if the polyps are causing cancerous changes.
Detects Infections
While the test is uncomfortable at times, it’s usually no more than a bit of pressure and cramping in your lower belly. To reduce discomfort, you should take several deep breaths throughout the procedure. The colonoscope has a light and a small video camera at its end, which transmits images to a monitor. With the help of special instruments passed through the scope, any abnormal-looking areas can be removed or biopsied (a small sample can be taken). Your doctor will also use the content to look at pockets in your intestines that can become infected, a condition known as diverticulitis. The test can help prevent these infections from getting worse and requiring treatment with antibiotics or surgery.
Prevents Bleeding
A colonoscopy lets your doctor look at the lining of your rectum and colon, where polyps can grow. These growths are sometimes cancerous, and removing them prevents them from getting more significant. Polyps often don’t cause pain or symptoms, so they can go unnoticed until they are removed during a colonoscopy. Other types of screening tests can detect abnormalities in the lining of your rectum and small intestine, but only a colonoscopy can check the entire length of your large intestine. It also allows your doctor to remove polyps or tissue for biopsy, and it can find inflammation or infections in the colon.
