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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Tests & Exams > Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy


•	Definition
•	Why is the Test Performed?
•	How is the Test Performed?
•	How to Prepare for the Test?
•	How will the Test Feel?
•	Normal Values
•	What do Abnormal Results Mean?
•	Special Considerations
•	Risks
•	Pictures & Images
•	Go To Main Page

Definition

A colonoscopy is a procedure for viewing the interior lining of the large intestine (colon) using a small camera called a colonoscope (which is a flexible fiber-optic tube).

Pictures & Images

Colonoscopy	Colonoscopy
Anal Biopsy

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Why is the Test Performed?

to obtain tissue specimen for biopsy
to evaluate unexplained blood in the stool, abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, or abnormalities (such as polyps) found on contrast X-rays (barium enema)
to determine the type and extent of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease)
to follow people with previous polyps, colon cancer, or a family history of colon cancer

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• Definition
• Why is the Test Performed?
• How is the Test Performed?
• How to Prepare for the Test?
• How will the Test Feel?
• Normal Values
• What do Abnormal Results Mean?
• Special Considerations
• Risks
• Pictures & Images

Topics that might be of interest to you

Diseases & Conditions

• CMV - Gastroenteritis/Colitis
• Colon Cancer
• Colorectal Polyps
• Crohn's Disease
• Dehydration
• Diverticulitis
• Heart Disease
• Ischemic Colitis
• Pseudomembranous Colitis
• Tumor
• Ulcerative Colitis

Tests & Exams

• Barium Enema
• Biopsy

Other Topics

• Abdominal Bloating
• Abdominal Pain
• Adolescent Test or Procedure Preparation
• Bleeding
• Blood Pressure - Low
• Bloody or Tarry Stools
• Diarrhea
• Drowsiness
• Electrocauterization
• Infant Test/Procedure Preparation
• Intravenous
• Laser Therapy
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Pain Medications
• Preschooler Test/Procedure Preparation
• Respiratory
• School Age Test/Procedure Preparation
• Toddler Test/Procedure Preparation

Review Date : 5/1/2002
Reviewed By : Jenifer K. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

Main Page of Colonoscopy

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