Findings and indications in colonoscopies performed in the General Surgery Service of the Regional Hospital of Encarnación-Paraguay- period 2020-2021

Abstract

Introduction: Colonoscopy is the preferred method to evaluate the colon. If done properly it is a safe procedure. In addition, it constitutes the gold standard for the detection of colorectal cancer worldwide.Objectives: To determine the indications and findings of colonoscopies performed on patients in the endoscopy unit at the General Surgery Service of the Regional Hospital of Encarnación in the period 2020-2021.Materials and methods: Descriptive, Observational, cross-sectional design, with an analytical component in patients with a colonoscopy order in the General Surgery Service of the Regional Hospital of Encarnación, in the city of Encarnación in the Republic of Paraguay during the period 2020 and 2021. .Results: During the study period, 45 patients with a colonoscopy order attended the General Surgery Service of the Regional Hospital of Encarnación; most of the patients belong to the male sex. The most prevalent age range corresponds to 41 to 65 years. Regarding the origin, a predominance was obtained in the interior regions of the Department of Itapúa.Conclusion: The reasons for colonoscopy request were in higher percentage due to lower gastrointestinal bleeding, followed by anemia and chronic diarrhea. The main pathological findings found in colonoscopies were diverticular disease, hemorrhoids and polyps.

It is concluded that high-quality colonoscopy constitutes the fundamental role of the colonoscopist within the multidisciplinary effort to reduce the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer.