Tulsa Colonoscopy What is it All About?

For many years we have been limited to seeing only the last foot or so of the rectum and colon. With the introduction of fiber optics in the late 70's the entire colon became accessible. i am sure many have heard chilling tales of people undergoing this operation in the doctor’s office bent over a table. this study was known as a rigid sigmoidoscopy. This study allowed the visualization of the very bottom of the colon and rectum. Although it was much less accurate than current techniques it did allow us to visualize the bottom of the colon and rectum and served us well for many years.

Relatively recently and in the past 30 years advancement in technology led to fiber optics that allowed visualization of the entire colon and rectum. We now call this colonoscopy. This study is performed by passing a small diameter scope the bottom and passing it around the entire colon allowing visualization of the entire inside of the colon. Small or large lesions can be visualized and biopsy, or removal of small pieces of tissue can be preformed allowing painless and quick diagnosis of a variety of colon diseases. With this improved method of examination of the colon a correct diagnosis and treatment are much more likely. This will lead to correct treatment.

This study is routinely carried out with the patient lightly sedated and comfortable throughout the exam. Most have no memory of their exam at all. The type of sedation used is called iv sedation and is not a general anesthetic. Since this is not a general anesthetic a few patients may have some memory of the study.

Polyps are one of the main reasons the exam is preformed. They are usually removed at the time of the study. Polyps are small growths in the colon and most are entirely asymptomatic, meaning the patient and doctor can’t tell they are present until the Tulsa colonoscopy. Colon cancers may arise from these polyps after they have been present for many years so it is important that they be removed to decrease this risk. By taking out these polyps we can reduce the risk and the development of colon cancer. The most beneficial way to treat this malignancy or cancer is to stop it before it ever gets started and the procedure is safe and relatively simple to perform. The use of colonoscopy and the removal of polyps could go far to reduce the risk of the development of this common malignancy.

Some of the indication for colonoscopy are, and this is by no means a complete list.

Bright red rectal bleeding

Change in bowel habits diarrhea

Pain in the abdomen

Decrease in the number, size or caliber of stool

Unexplained iron deficiency anemia

Personal history of polyps

Family history of colon cancer or polyps

Anyone over the age of 50 without prior exam.

History of inflammatory bowel disease

This is by no means a complete list and if you fall into one of these categories consult with your doctor and decide if this is right for you. This simple and safe procedure is important and could save your life. An important point is that all polyps be removed and that you continue to get colonoscopies until your colon is clear of all polyps. You should continue with surveillance colonoscopies for life. With this practice we can markedly decrease the incidence of colon cancer.

I encourage you to discuss this issue with your personal doctor. If you live in the Cushing area we are happy to see you and discuss your personal issues with you. Be sure to confer this issue with your physician and seek appropriate referral for a colonoscopy.

All the best and get your Tulsa colonoscopy to help guarantee your long and healthy life.