Did you know that there are 4 different screening tests for colorectal cancer? Here’s some interesting insight into these tests from a leading colorectal surgeon and pelvic floor specialist. We can assist you when it’s time for your next colonoscopy in Melbourne!
#1 — The Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
This test is to detect trace amounts of blood in your stool, which is a key indicator for colorectal cancer as well as other health issues, including haemorrhoids. It’s easy to do yourself at home — all you have to do is follow the simple instructions to swab a stool sample, and send it off to the required lab. Remember, if the test is positive for blood, it doesn’t mean that you necessarily have colon cancer, but it does mean that you should go for further testing as soon as possible.
#2 — The Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Test
This test may be recommended by your colorectal surgeon and pelvic floor specialist if you have a positive result from your FOBT. It’s similar to what you’d experience during a colonoscopy in Melbourne, with the main difference being that the scope is much thinner and can only evaluate the colon up until the first bend. This means you don’t have to be sedated for the procedure, but it is limited in that your colorectal surgeon won’t be able to see any problems beyond the first bend in the colon.
#3 — The Double-Contrast Barium Enema
This is a way of looking at the health of your colon using an x-ray rather than a scope. The procedure involves cleaning out your colon and coating it with a liquid that lights up on x-ray images, so your colorectal surgeon can detect any masses. This is usually recommended for patients who cannot undergo a colonoscopy. The downside of this non-invasive procedure is that your colorectal surgeon cannot remove any masses for analysis during the procedure itself.
#4 — The Colonoscopy
Undergoing an annual colonoscopy in Melbourne is still the most preferred test by colorectal surgeons and pelvic floor specialists, and it’s easy to see why. It’s quick, minimally-invasive, allows your colorectal surgeon to examine your entire colon and rectal area, and they can even remove tissue samples and masses while they screen you. It makes catching precancerous growths and makes it easy to detect cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.
Dr Naseem is a leading colorectal surgeon and pelvic floor specialist in Melbourne, working on colorectal and prolapse conditions. A colonoscopy sounds a lot scarier than it is in reality, and our clinic works hard to keep every patient relaxed, comfortable and cared for throughout. An experienced female colorectal surgeon has performed this procedure countless times and seen it all — they know exactly how to make this procedure as quick and comfortable as possible. Contact us today to schedule your colonoscopy in Melbourne.
