Colonoscopy Diagnostic

Colonoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that involves using a long, flexible tube equipped with a camera (colonoscope) to examine the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) and rectum. It is considered the gold standard for detecting abnormalities, including polyps, inflammation, and cancers, within the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Indications for Diagnostic Colonoscopy

Screening for Colorectal Cancer:

• Routine screening for individuals aged 45 years and older.
• Screening in individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or hereditary syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome).

Evaluation of Symptoms:

• Rectal bleeding.
• Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation.
• Abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping.
• Unexplained weight loss or anemia (iron deficiency).

Monitoring of Conditions:

• Surveillance of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Post-polypectomy or post-cancer treatment surveillance.

Investigation of Abnormal Tests:

• Positive fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or stool DNA test.
• Abnormal findings on imaging studies, such as a barium enema or CT colonography.

Findings on Diagnostic Colonoscopy

• Polyps: Precancerous or benign growths that can be removed during the procedure (polypectomy).
• Inflammatory Changes: Seen in IBD, including ulcers, erosions, or pseudopolyps.
• Diverticula: Pouch-like protrusions in the colon wall, indicative of diverticular disease.
• Masses or Tumors: Early detection of malignancy is critical for treatment.
• Vascular Abnormalities: Angiodysplasia or other bleeding sources.

Benefits of Colonoscopy

• Early Detection: Identifies precancerous conditions and allows intervention before progression.
• Dual Role: Diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities in a single procedure (e.g., polyp removal, controlling bleeding).
• Comprehensive Assessment: Provides a detailed evaluation of the entire colon.

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding: Particularly after biopsies or polypectomies.
• Perforation: Rare but serious, requiring surgical intervention.
• Infection: Minimal risk with proper technique and sterilization.