Colonoscopy
A Colonoscopy in internal visual examination of the colon (large intestine) to screen for bowel cancer or help diagnosed unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms.
Colonoscopy or Lower Endoscopy is a visual examination of the colon (large intestine).
Reason for Exam
Check for colonic polyps or cancers
Check for abnormalities in the large bowel
How is Colonoscopy performed?
A long flexible instrument is passed through the rectum and around the colon. Through this the doctor will be able to look for any abnormalities that may be present.
A variety of procedures may be carried out through the colonoscope e.g. biopsies or removal of polyps. For the majority of polyps this involves placing a snare wire around the base of the polyps and using electric current to remove the polyp.
Why have a Colonoscopy?
To screen for bowel cancer or monitor changes in bowel habits. It is also required for regular screening if you have pre-existing benign polyps. If polyps are found at the time of examination then they will be removed to prevent their subsequent change to cancers.