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Do I need a referral by my primary care physician?
Some insurance companies require written referrals from your primary care physician. Others allow telephone referrals. By contacting your insurance company or reviewing your insurance policy, you will know if you need a referral.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is the most thorough examination available of the colon and the rectum. It is considered an invasive procedure and involves the use of a camera on a flexible fiber-optic tube. It allows the physician to visualize the lining of the entire colon. The procedure requires full-bowel preparation to remove all the stool one day prior. Medication is administered before and during the procedure to minimize patient discomfort.
If my primary care physician refers me to a specialist for a colonoscopy, why would I need an initial consulation?
Colonoscopy is the best colon evaluation available to us at the present time. There are other types of evaluations that may be requested. Because colonscopy is an invasive procedure, it is important for us to discuss the process including the potential risks involved. It is important for us to ensure that every patient is fully informed prior to the actual procedure.
How long does a colonoscopy take?
Generally speaking, a colonoscopy procedure takes approximately 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours, inclusive of administration, preparation and recovery time.
Will I need to prepare for the colonoscopy procedure?
Yes. You will be given an instruction brochure prior to your procedure.
Is a colonoscopy always performed in the hospital?
Because a colonoscopy is an invasive procedure, we perform the procedure in the hospital. They can also be performed in surgery centers.
When should I begin having colon screening examinations?
Colon cancer is the third most common internal cancer. With today’s medical advances, almost all colon cancers can be prevented. Typically individuals begin colon screening examinations at age 50. However, people with symptoms or other risk factors should be examined immediately.
What is Laparoscopic Colon Surgery?
Laparoscopy is sometimes referred to as “Camera Surgery”. It is available for the treatment of many problems of the entire colon and rectum. Laparoscopic Sugery involves several very small incisions called “ports”. The use of Laparoscopic surgery allows for less post-operative pain as well as a faster recovery. Dr. Belizon has specialized training in minimally invasive surgery.
What types of surgeries can be performed using laparoscopic surgery?
Most intestinal surgeries can be performed with the laparoscopic technique. Ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, cancer, rectal prolapsed, severe constipation, and Crohn’s disease are some of the surgeries that can be performed using this minimally invasive procedure.
Is laparoscopic surgery safe?
Laparoscopic surgery is as safe as traditional open surgery. At the beginning of the surgical procedure, the laparoscope is inserted through a small incision called a “port” near the belly button. The surgeon will inspect the abdomen to determine whether the surgery can be safely performed using this method. If there is significant inflammation or if the surgeon determines there are other factors that prevent clear views of the internal structures, the surgeon may elect to perform the procedure using a larger incision.
What are the signs or symptoms of colon cancer?
Colon polyps and cancers are very slow to give symptoms. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or a change in bowel habits may be caused by polyps or colon cancer. Any of these symptoms should be fully evaluated by your physician.
What is a polyp?
Polyps are growths in the colon and rectum. They are usually small and do not give any symptoms. There are many different types of polyps. Some polyps, if left in the colon, can become cancer. By removing polyps at colonoscopy, we can reduce usually prevent most colon and rectal cancers.
Does genetics play a role in the development of colon and rectal cancer?
Genes are the biochemical information we inherit from our parents. It is presumed that many cancers, especially colon and rectal cancer have hereditary genetic factors that potentially increase an individual’s risk of developing these types of malignancies. Because of this, it is important that you discuss your family history with your physician as it relates to cancer.
What is an Ostomy?
An ostomy is a surgically created opening which connects an internal organ to the surface of the body. A Colostomy is a specific type of ostomy in which the colon or large intestine is connected to the abdominal wall. An ostomy may be temporary or permanent. A permanent ostomy may be required when disease, or its treatment, impairs normal intestinal function. It may also be required when the muscles that control elimination of waste do not work properly and/or are required to be removed. The most common condition that requires permanent Colostomy are low rectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. However, because of newer technology and greater surgical experience, colostomy is rarely required after bowel resection surgery. Even low rectal lesions can be removed and reconnected with good function and regular bowel movements. Please ask Dr. Belizon if you have additional questions.
FAQs - Hemorrhoids
Our Frequently Asked Questions section refers to United States-based generally standard and accepted practices. As always, please check with your healthcare provider to determine their practices, guidelines, and what they recommend for you.
What is a hemorrhoid?
Each of us has veins, or hemorrhoids, within the anus that tend to stretch under pressure, somewhat like varicose veins in the legs. It is believed these veins exist to protect and cushion the anal canal. When these veins swell and descend into the anal canal, they are considered “prolapsed.” One set of veins is inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) and another is under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids).
Why does hemorrhoidal tissue prolapse?
A number of factors contribute to hemorrhoidal issues — constipation with prolonged straining and pregnancy are two of the most common causes. With aging, the muscles and other anatomic structures that support the tissue weaken and help contribute to the prolapse of the hemorrhoid.
What are the types of hemorrhoids?
There are two types of hemorrhoids — internal and external.
Internal hemorrhoids usually are not painful, but may bleed. Sometimes, an internal hemorrhoid may stretch until it bulges outside the anus. This is called a prolapsed hemorrhoid. A prolapsed hemorrhoid can go back inside the rectum on its own over time, or it can be gently pushed back inside. If the prolapsed hemorrhoid cannot be pushed back inside, consultation with a physician about surgical treatment options is necessary.
External hemorrhoids involve the veins around the anus. They can be itchy or painful and can sometimes crack and bleed. If a blood clot forms, one may feel a tender lump on the edge of the anus, and see bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet after a bowel movement.
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Symptoms of hemorrhoids, both external and internal, include:
- Aching after a bowel movement
- Anal or rectal itching
- Bright red blood on toilet tissue or in toilet bowl
- Appearance of anal tissue pads or sensitive lumps
Consult your physician if you experience any of these hemorrhoid symptoms.
Who gets hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are one of the most common ailments for men and women alike — affecting more than half the population at some point in their lives. Onset commonly occurs after the age of 30, but hemorrhoids are reported in people of all ages. More than 525,000 patients in the United States are treated annually for symptomatic hemorrhoids6. Of these, approximately 10–20 percent will require surgical treatment for the condition.
What are the chances that I will have hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids can affect men and women alike; however an individual may be more likely to get hemorrhoids as they age or if their parents had them. Pregnant women often get hemorrhoids because of the strain from carrying the baby and from giving birth. For most women, such hemorrhoids are a temporary problem. Obesity, straining during bowel movements, sitting too long on the toilet, or standing or lifting too much can make hemorrhoids worse. Constipation is oftentimes the main cause of hemorrhoids.
How can I prevent getting swollen or prolapsed hemorrhoids?
The following are tips for hemorrhoid prevention:
- Include more fiber in your diet. Fresh fruits, leafy vegetables, and whole-grain breads and cereals are good sources of fiber.
- Drink plenty of fluids (except alcohol). Eight glasses of water each day is ideal.
- Do not read on the toilet. Sitting and straining too long encourages swelling.
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoid laxatives, except bulk-forming laxatives, such as Fiberall®, Metamucil®, etc. Other types of laxatives can lead to diarrhea, which can worsen hemorrhoids.
- When you feel the need to have a bowel movement, don’t wait for long periods before using the bathroom.
How can I reduce my hemorrhoidal pain?
- Take warm soaks three or four times a day.
- Clean your anus after each bowel movement by patting gently with moist toilet paper or moistened pads, such as baby wipes.
- Use ice packs to relieve swelling.
- Use acetaminophen (Tylenol®), ibuprofen (Motrin®), or aspirin to help relieve pain.
- Apply a cream that contains witch hazel to the area or use a numbing ointment. Creams that contain hydrocortisone can be used for itching or pain.
What do I do if I think I have hemorrhoids?
If you find you are struggling with hemorrhoid symptoms, it is important to visit your physician to correctly identify the problem. The physical evaluation to confirm a diagnosis of hemorrhoids should include observation, palpation, and anoscopic examination. |
