| If an abnormality is detected, the doctor can remove it or take tissue samples using instruments passed through the colonoscope. |
| It involves diluting stool with a liquid, like salt water, and then pumping it into the intestinal tract via an enema, a colonoscope or a tube run through the nose into the stomach or small intestine. |
| The colonoscope not only allows identification and localization of the disease process, but also allows biopsy or even removal of polyps. |
| For early-stage colon cancer, a colonoscope may be used to remove the cancerous tissue. |
| A biopsy may also be conducted in which abnormal tissue is removed by using the colonoscope and then examined under a microscope for signs of cancer. |
| Surprisingly, those who had the colonoscope in longer on average remembered less total pain. |
