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Colonoscopy
Pronunciation
Definition 1
Examination of the inside of the colon using a colonoscope, inserted into the rectum. A colonoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing. It may also have a tool to remove tissue to be checked under a microscope for signs of disease. (NCI Dictionary)
Definition 2
Endoscopic examination of the luminal surface of the colon. (NCI Thesaurus)
More information
Colonoscopy is a procedure that lets your doctor look inside your entire large intestine. It uses an instrument called a colonoscope, or scope for short. Scopes have a tiny camera attached to a long, thin tube. The procedure lets your doctor see things such as inflamed tissue, abnormal growths, and ulcers.
Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy:
• To look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum. It may part of a routine screening, which usually starts at age 50.
• To look for causes of unexplained changes in bowel habits
• To evaluate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and weight loss
Your doctor can also remove polyps from your colon during a colonoscopy.
You need to be on a clear liquid diet for 1 to 3 days before the colonoscopy. During the procedure, you receive medicines to keep you relaxed. (NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
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