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Related Concept Videos

Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy01:25

Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy

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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:
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Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

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Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
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Imaging Studies III: Gastrointestinal Motility Studies and Virtual Colonoscopy01:26

Imaging Studies III: Gastrointestinal Motility Studies and Virtual Colonoscopy

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This lesson explores three gastrointestinal imaging techniques: radionuclide testing, colonic transit studies, and virtual colonoscopy.
Radionuclide Testing
Radionuclide testing is a sophisticated medical technique for assessing gastrointestinal motility. It focuses on gastric emptying and colonic transit time. Radioactive markers track the movement of food through the digestive system, providing insights into gastrointestinal disorders.
In gastric emptying studies, a meal's liquid and...
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Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy01:26

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy

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Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
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Lower GI Series: Barium Enema01:23

Lower GI Series: Barium Enema

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A Barium Enema, or a lower GI series, is a specialized radiographic examination designed to visualize the lower gastrointestinal tract, specifically the colon and rectum. This procedure is instrumental in diagnosing various conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, diverticulosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Procedure Details
The examination begins by inserting a lubricated rectal tube into the patient's rectum to administer a radiopaque barium solution. The barium flow is carefully...
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Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS01:21

Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS

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Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...
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Acupoint Application Combined with Acupoint Massage for Treating Constipation in a Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
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Constipation and colonoscopy.

Dusan Dj Popovic1,2, Branka Filipovic1,3

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Constipation diagnosis often requires only history and physical exam. Colonoscopy is reserved for patients with alarm symptoms indicating organic causes, ensuring better patient outcomes.

Keywords:
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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Constipation is a prevalent issue impacting many individuals.
  • Diagnostic evaluation typically involves patient history, physical examination, and targeted tests.

Discussion:

  • Colonoscopy is not routinely indicated for all constipation cases.
  • It becomes essential when alarm symptoms suggest underlying organic pathology.

Key Insights:

  • Alarm symptoms include age over 50, bleeding, new-onset constipation, palpable masses, weight loss, anemia, IBD, and family history of colorectal cancer.
  • Endoscopists face challenges with colonoscopy in constipated patients due to preparation and procedural difficulties.

Outlook:

  • Optimizing colonoscopy quality requires enhanced patient preparation and specialized endoscopic techniques.
  • These include psychological preparation, gentle scope insertion, and effective loop management.