Colonoscopy - intestinal diagnostics

Colonoscopy (video colonoscopy) is an effective method of early diagnosis of colorectal cancer and other intestinal pathologies. The study makes it possible to identify diseases that are asymptomatic, which in many cases makes it possible to start treatment before complications develop.

In the European Medical Center, a colonoscopy can be performed under anesthesia - without pain and discomfort. The department is equipped with modern, high-precision equipment from the world's leading manufacturers, doctors work in accordance with international protocols and apply the experience of the best foreign clinics in practice.

About the study

Colonoscopy can detect precancerous bowel diseases or cancer at an early stage. This is a procedure in which the doctor visually examines the inner surface of the colon throughout its entire length. A video endoscope is used for examination, a device consisting of a working part that is inserted into the intestine and a housing where the controls and monitor are located.

The working part of the endoscope is a thin flexible tube, at the distal end of which there is a backlight, a camera, an irrigation channel for air and liquid supply, and an instrumental channel. The tube is inserted into the anus and gradually moves through the colon. The doctor examines the intestine, and if a pathological formation, a polyp, is detected, he performs a biopsy or removes it using an instrument that is guided through a special channel. The obtained material is sent to the laboratory for histological analysis. Also, during the procedure, bleeding can be stopped, stenosis eliminated, and other manipulations performed.

Purpose of colonoscopy

The main purpose of the FCS is the early detection of colon pathologies and the reduction of the likelihood of complications. The diagnostic method allows you to detect:

• Polyps, adenomas, and other formations. If the size of the neoplasm does not exceed 2 cm, and has no signs of malignant growth, then it is removed immediately. If the size is more than 2 cm, or there are signs of malignant growth, a tissue sample is taken for laboratory examination.

• Sources of bleeding (injuries, ulcers, angiodysplasia). Electrocoagulation and the application of clips can be used to stop the bleeding.

• Inflamed areas, erosions, and other pathological changes.

Indications for fibrocolonoscopy

• Age over 40 years. At this age, the likelihood of colorectal cancer increases, so it is recommended that everyone undergo an annual examination, regardless of the presence of complaints.

• Abdominal pain. In case of pain, the cause of which could not be determined using other diagnostic methods, a colonoscopy is recommended.

• Systematic stool disorders. Stool problems can be a consequence of pathological processes in the colon.

• Blood, pus, and mucus in the feces. Such impurities may indicate bleeding, purulent inflammation and other disorders.

• Heavy intestinal bleeding is an indication for an emergency colonoscopy, unless the proctologist determines that hemorrhoids are the source of the bleeding.

• Weight loss for an unknown reason, while maintaining a caloric intake and a normal level of physical activity.

• Anemia that cannot be compensated with medications.

Diagnostic colonoscopy, regardless of age, is recommended for anyone who previously had polyps and neoplasms of any localization, as well as for those whose close relatives had intestinal oncological pathologies.

Contraindications

In each case, the decision on the possibility of the procedure is made by the doctor. The reason to temporarily postpone the study is:

• Acute infectious diseases, exacerbation of chronic diseases.

• Blood clotting disorders.

• Diverticulitis, large hernias.

• Hemorrhoids in acute form, anal fissures.

• Pregnancy.

Preparation

Preparation for the study affects the possibility of conducting it and its information content. The main goal is to clear the gastrointestinal tract of solid contents, which can make it difficult to move the endoscope, to block the view.

The doctor will give accurate recommendations on preparation at a preliminary consultation. As a rule, it is recommended to exclude nuts, seeds, and foods that contribute to increased gas formation (legumes, carbonated drinks, fiber–rich vegetables and fruits) from the diet 2-3 days before the procedure, and you should also avoid red and purple foods (cherries, black currants, and beets). The optimal menu before the study is based on light broths, porridges, boiled chicken or turkey fillets. It is also important to drink a lot. On the eve of a colonoscopy, a two–stage intake of an intestinal cleansing drug – Moviprep, Eziklen, Fortrans, as well as a defoamer - Simethicone (espumizan, bobotik, sabsimplex) may be recommended

If necessary, the doctor can send you for tests (clinical blood test, ECG) before the procedure. They may also ask for the results of a previous video colonoscopy. 

 Memo on preparation for colonoscopy or gastro-colonoscopy

How does an endoscopic examination under anesthesia work

In order to protect patients from unpleasant sensations and make the procedure as comfortable as possible, colonoscopy is performed under intravenous sedation in the EMC endoscopic department.

Sedation is a type of anesthesia in which the patient is immersed in a state of superficial drug—induced sleep. For this, drugs with a short period of action are used.: The patient sleeps during the procedure, but wakes up quickly when all the manipulations are completed. It is psychologically easier for patients to prepare for the examination in their sleep — they know that the procedure will be painless. And it is easier for the doctor to perform manipulations if the patient does not feel pain and remains motionless, which is the key to better informative research. As with conventional anesthesia, the issue of the possibility of conducting a sleep study is decided individually by an anesthesiologist during a preliminary consultation, taking into account contraindications and possible risks.

During FCS, the patient lies on his left side with his legs bent at the knees. The video endoscope is inserted into the anus, air is supplied through the irrigation channel — it straightens the folds of the intestine, which ensures further advancement of the device and provides a better view.

The diagnostic procedure takes about half an hour, and if medical procedures are performed during the examination, it may take longer. After waking up, the patient remains in the ward for some time under the supervision of doctors. The patient is also offered a light snack.

During the day, there may be a feeling of bloating and slight discomfort in the anal area.

Results

The EMC doctors provide a detailed opinion and recommendations based on it. If necessary, specialists from related fields are involved in the development of a treatment plan.