A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inside of the colon (large intestine). 

It is typically performed using a colonoscope, a long, flexible tube with a camera and light at the end. 

This procedure is mainly used for screening and diagnosing colorectal diseases such as cancer, polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases (like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), and other abnormalities.

Preparation for Colonoscopy

Bowel Cleansing:

• The patient is given a laxative or bowel prep solution the day before the procedure to clean out the colon. This solution causes diarrhea, flushing out the contents of the intestines.

• Procedure Steps

  1. Sedation and Anesthesia:

     • Colonoscopy is generally performed under moderate sedation or conscious sedation, which helps the patient relax and minimizes discomfort. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used, especially for patients with anxiety or when the procedure is more complex.

  2. Insertion of the Colonoscope:

     • The patient is usually positioned on their left side with knees drawn up to the chest.
     • The colonoscope is gently inserted through the rectum into the colon. Air is introduced into the colon to expand it, allowing better visualization.

  3. Examination:

     • The camera on the colonoscope sends images to a monitor, which the doctor uses to examine the colon for polyps, tumors, inflammation, or other abnormalities.

     • Duration of the Procedure

       • A colonoscopy typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on factors like the patient’s anatomy, the purpose of the procedure, and whether any abnormalities are found.