The colon, or large intestine, is the final segment of the digestive system. Its primary functions include absorbing water and vitamins produced by gut bacteria and transforming waste from liquid to solid to form stool. In adults, the large intestine is approximately 5 feet long and consists of four main sections:
The rectum leads to the anus, the exit point for stool from the body.
Colonoscopy: This procedure is both diagnostic and therapeutic, allowing for a detailed examination of the entire colon and the terminal ileum. It is utilized for cancer screening in individuals with gastrointestinal symptoms, a strong family history of colorectal cancer, and post-treatment colon evaluation.
Applications of Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy helps detect and treat colon polyps, tumors, ulcerations, inflammation, diverticula (pouches in the colon wall), and strictures (narrowed areas). It also assists in the investigation of chronic diarrhea or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Procedure Overview:
From Chapter 12:
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