Colonoscopy

What Is Colon Cancer?

It is a type of cancer caused by polyps that develop in the large intestine, called the colon. Colon cancer, which is seen more frequently especially in Western countries, ranks 3rd in the world in terms of incidence. Although its cause is not precisely known, environmental and genetic factors are involved in the development of colon cancer. Colon cancer may originate from a polyp developing in the colon, or it may develop from the mucosa that lines the inner surface.

What Is Colonoscopy? What Is It Used For?

Colonoscopy is the examination procedure in which the large intestine is inspected from the anus, through the rectum and large intestine up to the small intestine, viewed on a monitor screen using a flexible electronic camera at the tip of the instrument, similar to the instrument used in gastroscopy (stomach examination). Since pressure sensation, gas, and cramping pain in the abdomen may occur during the procedure, sedative and pain-relieving medications are administered before the procedure. Colonoscopic examination means examining the large intestine, which is approximately 100-150 cm in length, up to the point where the small intestine joins the large intestine, within an average of 15-45 minutes. Before the colonoscopy procedure, you must carefully follow the medication and instructions prescribed by your doctor for cleansing the intestines. During the procedure, polyps, cancer, diverticula, and inflammatory diseases (Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's disease, etc.) in the large intestine can be easily detected. When necessary, tissue samples are taken and biopsies are performed. In lower gastrointestinal bleeding, the bleeding site can be seen and necessary treatment procedures such as polypectomy, injection sclerotherapy, or bipolar heat probe may be applied. Polyps (fleshy moles) in the large intestine, i.e., the colon, are very important because they are precancerous lesions. 95%? of colon cancers develop from polyps. Depending on the type of polyp, this development occurs over years. During colonoscopy, these polyps are seen while the patient is asleep and are removed at the same time with a snare. Since colon polyps are precursors of cancer, polyps seen during the procedure are burned with electrocautery, removed from the intestines, and sent to the pathology laboratory for examination. In this way, a possible cancer is prevented, and it is decided how frequently potential diseases should be monitored. After the procedure, the patient is discharged after resting lying down for 30-60 minutes. Mild gas pain and cramps may be felt during the procedure. However, patients feel relieved as soon as the gas is expelled. If the doctor has no restrictions after the procedure, eating can be started immediately.

Developments in Screening and Prevention of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer development is a preventable disease. Theoretically, all cancers develop from benign precursor lesions called polyps (fleshy moles). Today, the most effective method used to reduce the risk of dying from the disease is colonoscopic screening and removal of the polyps detected during this screening. Lifestyle and dietary habits also influence the risk of colon cancer. Modifying risk factors such as diet, exercise, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, painkillers, and vitamin intake is important for the prevention of colon cancer.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Colonoscopy?

Side effects are very rare in diagnostic colonoscopies. Temporary bloating and gas pain, and damage to the intestinal mucosa and structure, are very rarely seen. One should remain alert and cautious about allergies to sedatives and painkillers. Even if a long time has passed, the doctor must be informed of any bloody stools. For the procedure to be performed properly, solid foods are stopped one day before, starting in the afternoon, and clear liquid foods are preferred instead. On the evening of the day before the procedure, after a clear liquid breakfast (broth without pieces, compote, meat broth), the laxative causing diarrhea prescribed by your doctor should be used as directed. You must inform your doctor of medications used before the procedure, such as aspirin, painkillers, heart medications, anticoagulants, and insulin, and act in accordance with their advice.