COLONOSCOPY Meaning and
Definition
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Colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum using a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope. This diagnostic procedure enables doctors to identify and evaluate various conditions affecting the colon, such as tumors, inflammation, ulcers, polyps, and other abnormalities.
During a colonoscopy, the patient lies on their side while a trained medical professional inserts the colonoscope through the anus and advances it gently into the rectum and colon. The colonoscope contains a light and a small video camera, which transmits images to a screen for the doctor to observe in real-time. The colonoscope also has a channel through which surgical instruments can be passed if necessary for tissue sample collection or polyp removal.
Colonoscopy plays a vital role in the prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer, as it allows for the removal of potentially cancerous growths like polyps before they develop into malignancies. In addition, the procedure aids in diagnosing digestive disorders, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and diverticulitis. It can also be used for therapeutic purposes, including the control of bleeding, the dilation of strictures, and the placement of stents.
Patients typically undergo some bowel preparation prior to a colonoscopy to ensure that the colon is clear of stool, which allows for more accurate visualization of the intestinal lining. While the procedure itself is generally well-tolerated, it is often performed under sedation or anesthesia to reduce discomfort and the potential for complications.
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Inspection of the upper portion of the rectum by means of an elongated speculum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for COLONOSCOPY
- colonoscop
- xolonoscopy
- volonoscopy
- folonoscopy
- dolonoscopy
- cilonoscopy
- cklonoscopy
- cllonoscopy
- cplonoscopy
- c0lonoscopy
- c9lonoscopy
- cokonoscopy
- coponoscopy
- cooonoscopy
- colinoscopy
- colknoscopy
- collnoscopy
- colpnoscopy
- col0noscopy
- col9noscopy
- colonoscoppy
- colposcopy
- Colanascopy
- Colonascoppy
Etymology of COLONOSCOPY
The word "colonoscopy" is derived from two Greek words: "kolon" meaning "colon" and "skopein" meaning "to view" or "to examine". Combining these Greek roots, "kolon" and "skopein", forms the term "colonoscopy", which refers to the medical procedure of examining the colon using a flexible tube-like instrument called a colonoscope.
Similar spelling words for COLONOSCOPY
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