A colonoscopy is a procedure used to view the large intestine (colon and rectum) using an instrument called a colonoscope, a flexible tube with a small camera and light source attached to its tip. A colonoscopy can be performed for screening or diagnostic purposes. While diagnostic colonoscopy is performed to confirm the presence of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps from a person showing symptoms (blood in stools, anemia, etc.), screening colonoscopy is performed on an asymptomatic person without any prior history of the two conditions.

 

Screening colonoscopy is indicated for the following:

• Family history (first degree relative) of colon cancer or polyps

• Inflammatory bowel disease

 

Colonoscopy is usually performed under sedation on an outpatient basis. You will be given a laxative or enema preparation to clear your bowels before the procedure. Air will be pumped into the colon to expand it for better visibility. The colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and gently moved up the colon until it reaches the caecum (junction of small and large intestine). The colonoscope is then withdrawn slowly as the camera relays pictures of the colon and rectum lining onto a large screen for your doctor to view. Any polyps or growths detected by the colonoscope can be removed and sent to the lab for determining whether it is cancerous or not (biopsy).

Screening colonoscopy is a very sensitive test. However, some cancers, small polyps or non polypoid lesions may go unnoticed, and the procedure may be associated with the risk of bleeding, tearing or perforation of the colon lining, especially during polypectomy.