Colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a direct view of the entire large intestine and also, if necessary, the final part of the small intestine (terminal ileum).

Used as a diagnostic test, it allows for a biopsies to be taken and commencement for endoscopic therapy.

Frequent uses:

• It is the best examination to detect colon cancer. In turn, it can detect polyps that must be removed for closer examination (endoscopic polypectomy). The search and extraction of colon polyps has proven to be extremely effective in the prevention of colon cancer.
• For lower digestive bleeding, it allows to detect its cause and frequently provide treatment at the same time. It identifies diverticula, angiodysplasias, tumors, rectal fissures and hemorrhoids with active bleeding. Many of these injuries can be treated with a vasoconstrictor injection, clip application, argon plasma or thermal therapy.
• It is used as a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease that includes Sickle Cell Disease and Crohn’s Disease.
• In chronic diarrhea it allows for a biopsies to be taken to search for microscopic colitis.