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Colonoscopy in central Jamaica: results and implications.
J M Plummer1, D I Mitchell, D Ferron-Boothe
1Department of Surgery, Radiology, Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica, West Indies. joseph_plummer@yahoo.com
The West Indian Medical Journal
|February 28, 2013
Summary
Colonoscopy outcomes in Jamaica reveal common findings like diverticulosis and hemorrhoids. Importantly, 10% of patients had carcinomas, highlighting the value of colonoscopy for early cancer detection.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Colonoscopy is a crucial diagnostic tool for colorectal conditions.
- Data on colonoscopy outcomes in central Jamaica is limited.
- Understanding local prevalence of findings is essential for healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the outcomes of colonoscopies performed at an outpatient facility in central Jamaica.
- To analyze indications, findings, and complication rates.
- To identify predictors of abnormal colonoscopy results.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 1,250 consecutive colonoscopy reports from March 2007 to April 2011.
- Data extraction included patient demographics, indications, findings, and complications.
- Statistical analysis to identify significant predictors and rates.
Main Results:
- Mean age of patients was 60 years, with 56.5% females.
- Common indications: bleeding (28%), constipation (15%), screening (11%).
- Prevalence of findings: diverticulosis (32%), hemorrhoids (23%), carcinomas (10%), adenomas (11%).
- Caecal intubation rate was 96%.
- Perforation rate was 0.24%, with no events in the latter half of cases.
- History of bleeding was the strongest predictor of abnormal findings.
Conclusions:
- Colonoscopy in central Jamaica reveals a significant prevalence of colorectal pathologies, including cancer.
- Bleeding is a key indicator for performing colonoscopies.
- The procedure demonstrated a low perforation rate, suggesting safety in this setting.
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