General Knowledge About the Colonoscope Examination

There are two types of colonoscopes: metal hard tube and fiber colonoscopes. The metal hard tube type has been abandoned due to its high level of pain, and currently, the vast majority of hospitals use fiber colonoscopes. Colonoscope is a common member of the fiber endoscope family. It is inserted through the anus in a retrograde direction and can inspect the rectum, sigmoid colon, descending colon, transverse colon, ascending colon, cecum, and a small section of the small intestine (terminal ileum) connected to the large intestine. With the help of the scope, colon lesions can not only be clearly detected, but also partially treated, such as directly removing benign lesions such as colonic polyps, stopping bleeding under the scope, and clearing foreign bodies from the colon. Different types of colonoscopy technology is currently the main method that cannot be replaced by other diagnostic and therapeutic measures.

Preparation before colonoscopy:

• Do not eat fiber-rich fruits and vegetables one day before the examination and fast on the day of the examination.

• Clean the intestines according to the doctor's orders. Those who clean the intestines with oral medication should drink plenty of water after taking the medication. The final stool should be clear water or light yellow and free of fecal residue, which provides the best intestinal cleaning effect.

• Before using different types of colonoscopy, liver function, blood routine, electrocardiogram, and other tests are required.

Indications for colonoscopy:

• Unexplained lower gastrointestinal bleeding, chronic diarrhea, abnormal defecation, and lower bowel obstruction.

• Abnormalities in barium enema examination and unknown lesion nature found during sigmoidoscopy examination.

• Abdominal mass in the colon or terminal ileum needs to be ruled out.

• Colonic polyps, tumor bleeding, and other lesions require colonoscopic treatment.

• Colonoscopy needs to be performed regularly after colon surgery or colonoscopic treatment.

• General survey of colon diseases.

Contraindications for colonoscope examination:

• Acute or purulent inflammation of the anus, rectum, or colon.

• Chronic inflammation of the abdominal cavity with extensive adhesions in the abdominal cavity.

• Acute severe ulcerative colitis or suspected toxic megacolon.

• Acute diffuse peritonitis.

• Severe ascites in the abdomen or pregnant women.

• Severe bleeding disorders, severe cardiac and pulmonary insufficiency, and extreme weakness.

Precautions for colonoscope examination:

• Generally, patients can eat after colonoscope examination or follow the doctor's orders for diet.

• After biopsy and polypectomy, absolute bed rest is required, and no vigorous exercise should be performed within three days. Fasting is required on the day of the procedure, and a liquid diet free of residue is recommended on the second day. Avoid soy milk and milk, and a semi-liquid diet is recommended on the third day. After no discomfort, a light, digestible diet can be taken, avoiding spicy and greasy foods.

• If persistent abdominal pain or significant bleeding occurs after using different types of colonoscopy, inform the doctor immediately to avoid accidents.

• Observe the color of the stool carefully. If there is blood in the stool, abdominal pain, discomfort or fever, inform the doctor promptly.