Marcelo Werneck, a coloproctologist, demystifies the colonoscopy exam in his video. He explains that the procedure is often feared due to myths and misconceptions. During a colonoscopy, patients are sedated, so they don't feel pain. The exam involves inserting a device through the anus to view the large intestine's mucosa and part of the small intestine. Preparation for the exam includes taking laxatives to clear the intestines and adhering to a specific diet. Colonoscopy can be both diagnostic and therapeutic, allowing for the removal of polyps and some types of cancer, thus potentially avoiding surgery. The device used can also aspirate secretions, apply clips to bleeding sites, and treat intestinal perforations. Werneck emphasizes the importance of following preparation instructions to ensure a successful exam and reduce the risk of complications.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. A colonoscopy exam is a procedure that uses a device to visualize the mucosa of the large intestine and a part of the small intestine.
2. The exam is usually performed with sedation, and the person may sleep during the entire procedure.
3. The device used in a colonoscopy has a camera, light source, optical fiber, and a working channel that allows for aspiration and other procedures.
4. Colonoscopy can be used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including the removal of polyps and some types of cancer.
5. The exam requires preparation, including the ingestion of laxatives to loosen the intestine and cause diarrhea.
6. The preparation for colonoscopy is usually done the day before the exam and lasts for 2-6 hours.
7. A diet without fiber is recommended before the exam to prevent the production of more feces.
8. The working channel in the colonoscopy device allows for the introduction of handle clamp materials and other procedures, such as biopsy, clipping, and cauterization.
9. Colonoscopy can be used to treat intestinal perforation, bleeding sites, and intestinal obstruction.
10. The exam can also be used to diagnose and treat diseases in the small intestine, such as inflammatory bowel diseases.
11. The risk of complications from colonoscopy is very low, but it can happen.
12. A colonoscopy can help prevent surgery in some cases.
13. The exam can be used to exclude several diseases, such as Crohn's disease.
14. Colonoscopy is a rare but possible way to diagnose and treat some diseases in the small intestine.