Colonoscopy (Screening for Colon and Rectum Abnormalities)

· Those looking for colon screening procedure in Mexicali.
· Those who are average-risk individuals aged 45 & above.
· Those who have had intestinal signs and symptoms.
· Those who are planning to investigate and screen for colon cancer.
· Those with medical conditions like gastritis or peptic ulcers.

Advanced technology has evolved to provide a very clear image of your mucosa through a video camera attached at the end of the thin and flexible tube. This test enable visual examination of the entire large bowel area from the distal rectum to the cecum. Screening for colorectal cancer is among the major indication for colonoscopy.

If necessary, removal of polyps or other types of abnormalities can be done through the scope during treatment.

Any type of mild sedation will be given before the treatment. Our affiliated doctor will begin the examination using a long and flexible tube known as colonoscope to provide video images of what is inside the entire colon and rectum.

· Lower gastrointestinal bleeding
· Acute and chronic diarrhea
· Isolated unexplained abdominal pain
· Chronic constipating
· Foreign body removal

<Advantages>
· Safe procedure
· Effective tools
· Treats various gastrointestinal disorders
· Minimizes morbidity and mortality

<Limitations>
· Possible risks like infection, bleeding and reaction to sedation

Pre-procedure:
· You will be asked to clean out your colon by either following a special diet, take a laxative, using an enema kit or adjust your medication

Post-procedure:
· Ensure someone will drive you home after the treatment
· Walking may help relieve any discomfort when you feel bloated
· Eat small meals that consist of soft and easily digestible food like soups, eggs, puddings and etc for a couple of days

· Patient refusal
· Inadequate sedation
· Known or suspected colonic perforation
· Severe toxic megacolon and fulminant colitis
· Clinically unstable patients
· Recent myocardial infarction
· Inadequate bowel preparation
· Peritonism

Q1: Is this examination really necessary?
A1: A grape-like growth or polyps in your colon or rectum is usually common in adults and harmless. However, if you have had family history or grown polyps for a while now, then this test is necessary.

Q2: How old should I be for this?
A2: It is recommended for those with average-risk to get their first colonoscopy at the age of 50.

Q3: I am 38 years old and if my mother had passed away due to colon cancer when she was 50, should I consider going for colonospy now?
A3: Since you are a first-degree relative to your mother who had colon cancer at age 50, you should start screening 20 to 10 years younger than her age. Now is also a good age to go for screening.

Q4: Is it possible to check whether the polyp is cancerous or benign?
A4: Usually polyps are common and benign. However, if any tests are necessary, biopsies of polyps will be sent to determine whether they are cancerous or not.

[Clinic Name] Hospital de la Familia
[Location] Mexicali, Mexico
[Nearest Stations / Attractions] The hospital is about 17 mins drive from Mexicali International Airport and 10 mins drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mexicali
[Clinic Opening Time] Monday - Sunday (24 hrs)