What is it
Colonoscopy is a diagnostic test that allows the exploration and direct visualisation of the large intestine and part of the small intestine
What is its purpose
This is a very useful method to detect polyps or colon cancer. In addition, it can detect the causes of gastrointestinal bleeding, chronic diarrhoea and inflamation of the intestine
How is it done
Before the test is done the large intestine (colon) must be empty of solids. Because of this some preparation is necessary, laxatives or enemas and a specific diet must be followed for two or three days prior to the procedure. Subsequently, at the beginning of the test a digital rectal exam is performed and a colonoscope (a flexible tube with a light and camera on one end that allows the visualisation of the different parts of the colon) is introduced into your anus. Your doctor will pump air into your bowel through the colonoscope to expand it slightly and give a better view.
This test may be performed under sedation, an intravenous medication will make the patient feel drowsy allowing them to relax and be as comfortable as possible throughout the test. During the test the patient may experience some abdominal discomfort such as a feeling of a need to empty the bowel owing to the sensation of pressure in the abdomen.
What is it
The gastroscopy is an exploratory procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a cold light that allows direct visualization and extraction of samples from the upper gastrointestinal tract consisting of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum .
What is its purpose
A gastroscopy is normally performed to diagnose the causes of stomach problems such as pain, nausea, excess acid and indigestion, difficulty in swallowing or bleeding that may have its origin in the upper digestive tract such as ulcer, polyps or gastric varices.
How is it done
To perform the test it is necessary for the stomach to be empty, to achieve this you will be asked to not eat or drink from the night before the procedure.
Generally, this procedure causes no discomfort and lasts between 2 and 5 minutes. A local anaesthetic is used to numb the throat, then the gastroscope is inserted through the oesophagus into the duodenum to perform a detailed examination of the entire area, including the stomach. Normally it is necessary to use air to open up the gastrointestinal tract with a fibre optic laryngoscopy, this is an exploration of the larynx through a flexible endoscope incorporating fibre optics.
What is it
It is an advanced outpatient procedure, that does not require hospitalisation, that consists of the removal, without invasive surgery, of polyps either in the upper gastrointestinal tract as well as the large intestine.
What is its purpose
Polyps are lumps of tissue that can occasionally become malignant and cancerous, for this reason the removal of even benign tumours is recommended. This enables a thorough and detailed analysis to prevent any complications.
How is it done
Preparation for the test follows the same procedure as a gastroscopy or colonoscopy.
Polypectomy is performed using an endoscope or a colonoscope and involves the removal of a polyp with a ligature, the use of an electric scalpel means that the site is sealed at the same time to stop bleeding.
What is it
A proctoscopy is a diagnostic test that allows the visual and digital examination of the anus and rectum and the introduction of a rectoscope.
What is its purpose
To identify alterations or lesions in the mucous lining of the area, also to obtain samples for analysis. It is recommended to discover the cause of constipation, chronic diarrhoea, rectal bleeding or when diverticulosis or cancer are suspected.
How is it done
It is a generally a simple, pain-free procedure that can be performed in under 10 minutes. Normally the doctor will conduct a visual and digital examination before introducing the rectoscope, an instrument measuring 25 – 30 cms with a small camera that allows an unobstructed view of the interior of the rectal cavity.
Preparation for this test consists of using laxatives or an enema, either the night before or on the morning of the procedure.