Question

Colonoscopy is the examination of the entire colon, from the rectum to the cecum, and may include the examination of the terminal ileum or small intestine proximal to an anastomosis. What is the primary purpose of colonoscopy?

a) To examine the stomach
b) To examine the liver
c) To examine the entire colon
d) To examine the lungs

Answer 1

The primary purpose of a colonoscopy is to examine the entire colon for the detection and removal of any precancerous polyps to prevent colorectal cancer. (option c is the correct answer)

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary purpose of a colonoscopy is to examine the entire colon, from the rectum to the cecum, which may include examining the terminal ileum or small intestine proximal to an anastomosis.

A colonoscopy allows a doctor to view the inside of the colon with a tiny camera attached to an endoscope. This procedure is considered the gold standard for diagnosing colorectal cancer and is both diagnostic and therapeutic. It enables the detection and removal of precancerous polyps before they have a chance to become malignant.

A colonoscopy is more than a diagnostic tool; it also plays a crucial role in cancer prevention. Other methods such as fecal occult blood tests and sigmoidoscopy are helpful but might not provide a comprehensive view of the entire colon. Colonoscopies are recommended for routine screening, particularly for individuals over the age of 50, and are indispensable when symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, cramping, abdominal pain, or rectal bleeding suggest the possibility of colorectal cancer.