Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is an examination of the colon and rectum using a flexible camera passed through the anus. It can detect disease and allow tissue sampling or treatment during the procedure.

Bowel preparation: A regimen that empties the bowel before procedures such as colonoscopy. Clearing stool lets the endoscopist inspect the colon lining.
Colorectal cancer screening: Testing people without symptoms to detect colorectal cancer or precancerous changes. Colonoscopy can find and remove precancerous lesions before they become cancer.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Endoscopic examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon using a flexible instrument. It examines less of the colon and usually requires less preparation.
Colonoscopy complications: Adverse events associated with colonoscopy, including bleeding, perforation, and complications of sedation. These uncommon harms are weighed against the expected benefit of examination.
Colonoscope: A flexible endoscope designed to examine the colon through a camera and working channel. Its camera and instruments make visual inspection and treatment possible.
Colorectal cancer: Cancer arising in the colon or rectum, often developing from precancerous polyps. Colonoscopy can identify tumors and obtain tissue for diagnosis.
Computed tomography colonography: A CT-based method that creates images of the colon after bowel preparation and inflation. It images the colon without an endoscope but cannot remove detected polyps.
Post-polypectomy bleeding: Bleeding that occurs after endoscopic removal of a colorectal polyp. Polyp removal adds a specific bleeding risk, sometimes delayed after the procedure.
Colonoscopy sedation: Medication used to reduce discomfort, anxiety, or awareness during colonoscopy. Sedation can make passage and examination more tolerable.
Colorectal polyp: A growth arising from the lining of the colon or rectum; some types can become cancerous. Detecting and removing polyps is a central preventive use.

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