How to investigate and make diagnosis for Bowel Cancer?
High-risk individuals and people with the above-mentioned symptoms should consult family doctors and arrange for appropriate investigations as soon as possible. Bowel disease-related investigation include:
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is currently the best method to examine the lower digestive tract. By means of a flexible video-endoscope, the entire length of the colon as well as the terminal portion of the small bowel could be examined. The procedure generally lasts for 10 to 45 minutes.
Colonoscopy inspects the entire colon. Sigmoidoscopy is used to examine the sigmoid colon and rectum.
Colonoscopy is not only useful for diagnosis. With the use of different accessory equipment, biopsy can be performed and targeted procedures such as removal of polyp can be done.
Risks and Complications
Minor discomfort, including abdominal pain and distension is common. Major complications, including perforation, bleeding, heart and lung complications, infection or acute intestinal obstruction may occur. In general, the risk of major complication is less than 1%. Patients should seek immediate help if they experience abdominal pain or discover blood in stools after the procedure.
Barium Enema Examination
Barium enema is a special x-ray procedure used to study the large intestine. Radiologist will introduce barium through a well-lubricated tube into the rectum. Liquid barium acts as a contrast to highlight specific areas in the body. The flow of the barium will be shown on an x-ray fluoroscopy screen to identify inner bowel wall abnormalities.
Rectal Examination
Physician will insert a gloved and lubricated finger into the rectum through the anus and palpate the insides for any abnormal area or tumour.
Fecal Occult Blood Test
Bleeding in the bowel may not be physically apparent. This test checks for hidden blood in the stool.
If tumour is found, doctors may need to conduct
computed tomography tests and other imaging studies.