COLONOSCOPY

General Information

DEFINITION--Visual examination of the inside of the rectum and the colon (large intestine). Fecal matter, tissue or foreign matter usually are removed for laboratory examination. The procedure is performed with a colonoscope, a fiber-optic instrument that makes examination and some surgeries simple, practical and safe.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Anus; rectum; colon.

REASONS FOR SURGERY--Examination of the rectum and lower intestinal tract for disorders that may include: fissures; fistulas; narrowed sections of the intestine; unexplained blood in stools; benign or cancerous tumors; or pre-cancerous polyps.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Adults over 60.
• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent or chronic illness.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--General surgeon, family doctor, proctologist or gastroenterologist.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital, outpatient surgical facility or well-equipped doctor's office.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; stool examinations; x-rays of lower gastrointestinal tract.
• After surgery: Laboratory examination of removed tissue and other material.

ANESTHESIA--Intravenous sedation.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• The examination is best accomplished after thorough cleansing of large bowel with laxatives and enemas.
• The colonoscope is lubricated, inserted into the rectum and passed into the colon.
• Affected areas are located, examined or treated. Fecal matter and other materials are removed for laboratory examination.
• Other minor surgical procedures may be performed. The colonoscope is removed.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Perforation of the colon.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--Usually none.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 4 days for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES---No special instructions except those listed under other headings.

MEDICATION---Medicine is usually not necessary.

ACTIVITY---No restrictions.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

Any of the following occurs:

• Increased pain, swelling or bleeding from rectum or blood in stools.
• Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• Nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain.