Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard for Diagnosing Colon Diseases


What Is Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a modern endoscopic procedure that allows physicians to examine the lining of the rectum, sigmoid colon, colon, and cecum using a flexible video endoscope. Also known as fiberoptic colonoscopy, it is considered the gold standard for diagnosing diseases of the large intestine.

During the examination, the physician can detect polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticula, benign and malignant tumors, sources of intestinal bleeding, and many other abnormalities. If necessary, tissue biopsies can be obtained, and polyps can often be removed during the same procedure without the need for open surgery.

At Helyos Medical Center in Dnipro, colonoscopy is performed using state-of-the-art video endoscopic equipment, providing highly accurate diagnosis while maximizing patient comfort.

Colonoscopy 1

Indications for Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is recommended for patients with symptoms that may indicate diseases of the large intestine, as well as for preventive colorectal cancer screening.

Common indications include:

  • Rectal bleeding
  • Blood in the stool
  • Chronic constipation
  • Persistent diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Iron-deficiency anemia
  • Suspected colorectal polyps
  • Suspected colorectal cancer
  • Monitoring inflammatory bowel disease
  • Preventive colorectal cancer screening

Early colonoscopy significantly improves the chances of detecting precancerous lesions and colorectal cancer at a treatable stage.

How to Prepare for Colonoscopy

Proper bowel preparation is essential for obtaining reliable examination results.

Preparation generally includes:

  • Following a low-residue diet for several days before the procedure
  • Taking prescribed bowel-cleansing medications
  • Drinking only clear liquids on the day before the examination, as instructed
  • Avoiding food for the recommended period before the procedure
  • Informing the physician about all medications and chronic medical conditions

A completely clean colon allows the physician to thoroughly examine the intestinal lining and detect even very small abnormalities.

How the Procedure Is Performed

Colonoscopy may be performed under intravenous sedation (medication-assisted sleep) or without sedation, depending on the patient's preference and medical indications.

During the examination, the physician carefully inserts a flexible colonoscope through the rectum and gradually advances it through the large intestine.

The procedure allows the physician to:

  • Examine the intestinal mucosa
  • Detect polyps and tumors
  • Diagnose inflammatory bowel disease
  • Perform tissue biopsies
  • Remove polyps
  • Control minor intestinal bleeding

The examination usually takes 20–40 minutes, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional interventions are performed.

Colonoscopy 3
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Created with Pixso.

Contraindications

Although colonoscopy is considered a safe procedure, it may not be appropriate under certain circumstances.

Contraindications may include:

  • Acute intestinal perforation
  • Severe active intestinal inflammation
  • Acute peritonitis
  • Severe cardiovascular instability
  • Serious blood clotting disorders
  • Critically ill patients whose condition makes the examination unsafe

Before the procedure, the physician carefully evaluates each patient's individual risks and determines whether colonoscopy can be safely performed.

Colonoscopy 4

Colonoscopy at Helyos Medical Center

At Helyos Medical Center, colonoscopy is performed by experienced endoscopists using advanced high-definition video endoscopic systems that ensure precise diagnosis and patient comfort.

Our advantages include:

  • Experienced endoscopy specialists
  • Modern high-definition video endoscopy
  • Intravenous sedation available for maximum comfort
  • Biopsy and polyp removal during the same examination
  • Personalized patient care
  • Rapid and accurate diagnostic results

The cost of colonoscopy depends on the extent of the examination, the need for biopsy or therapeutic procedures, and the type of anesthesia or sedation used. A personalized cost estimate is provided after consultation with the physician.

Prices

Video colonoscopy without anesthesia
2300 UAH
Anesthesia for video colonoscopy
2400 UAH
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Colonoscopy in Dnipro

Is colonoscopy painful?

Most patients experience little or no discomfort. Intravenous sedation allows the examination to be performed comfortably with minimal awareness of the procedure.

Can polyps be removed during colonoscopy?

Yes. In most cases, polyps can be safely removed during the same procedure, eliminating the need for additional surgery.

How often should colonoscopy be performed?

The recommended frequency depends on age, personal and family medical history, previous findings, and individual risk factors. Your physician will recommend an appropriate screening schedule.

How long does recovery take?

Patients who undergo colonoscopy without sedation can usually return to normal activities shortly after the examination. If sedation is used, patients should avoid driving and strenuous activities for the remainder of the day.

Why is colonoscopy considered the gold standard?

Colonoscopy allows direct visualization of the entire large intestine, enables tissue biopsy, and permits immediate treatment—such as polyp removal—during the same procedure, making it the most comprehensive diagnostic method for colorectal diseases.