Diagnostics
Colonoscopy
- Section
- Diagnostics
- Specialist
- Op. Dr. Dilara Hasanova
- Clinic
- Modern Hospital, Baku
What is colonoscopy?
Short answer
Colonoscopy is an examination of all parts of the colon (large bowel) using a thin, flexible instrument with a camera at its tip (a colonoscope). It makes it possible to detect polyps, inflammation and tumors. Polyps are often removed during the same procedure, and biopsies are taken from suspicious areas. Colonoscopy is both a diagnostic examination and a preventive one, aimed at preventing colon cancer.
Who performs colonoscopy at Modern Hospital?
Colonoscopy and gastroscopy for Dr. Hasanova's patients are performed by Modern Hospital's endoscopist. After the proctological examination, Dr. Hasanova determines whether colonoscopy is indicated and plans treatment based on the result.
Who is it recommended for?
- People over 45 for screening, even without symptoms (from age 50 in some guidelines)
- People with colon cancer or polyps in their family (starting at an earlier age)
- Rectal bleeding, blood in the stool or a positive occult (hidden) blood test
- Long-standing constipation, diarrhea or a change in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight loss or anemia
- Suspected inflammatory bowel disease, and monitoring of the disease
- After a polyp has been removed, at the time set by the doctor
Colon cancer screening
- Average-risk group: screening starts at age 45 (at age 50 in some countries); the method is colonoscopy or a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) for hidden blood in the stool.
- High-risk group: examination starts earlier and is done more often.
Preparation
- A diet in line with the doctor's instructions for a few days before the examination (low-fiber food)
- Taking the special bowel-cleansing preparation according to the instructions. Complete cleansing means a more accurate picture.
- If you take blood thinners, diabetes medications or iron supplements, tell the doctor in advance
- If sedation is planned, come with a companion
How does the procedure go?
Colonoscopy is usually performed under sedation (light, medication-induced sleep). The patient usually feels no pain during the procedure and often does not remember it. The procedure usually takes 20–60 minutes. Removing a polyp or taking a biopsy can make it longer.
After the examination
- You may feel bloated and gassy for a few hours.
- If you received sedation, driving a car on the same day is not recommended.
- The endoscopic result is usually explained right away. The histological result of a biopsy depends on how long the laboratory takes.
- Rare complications: bleeding from the site where a polyp was removed, injury to the bowel wall, a reaction to the sedation. If you have severe abdominal pain, fever or bleeding, see a doctor immediately.
Colonoscopy and video proctoscopy
| Video proctoscopy | Colonoscopy | |
|---|---|---|
| Area examined | Anal canal and the last part of the rectum | The entire colon and rectum |
| Preparation | Usually requires no special preparation | Diet and complete bowel cleansing |
| Anesthesia | Numbing gel | Usually sedation |
| Who performs it? | Dr. Hasanova | Endoscopist |
Visible area
- Video proctoscopy — anal canal and roughly the last 10–15 cm of the rectum
- Colonoscopy — entire colon and rectum