[Results of coloscopy of polypectomy in the years 1974-1975 at the Basel county hospital]. / Resultate der Kolonoskopien und Polypektomien der Jahre 1974 and 1975 am Kantonsspital Basel

The diagnostic value of coloscopy was assessed by analysis of the endoscopic findings in 310 patients investigated between January 1974 and December 1975. Altogether, 342 coloscopies were performed with a complication rate of 1.5% (3 perforations, 2 hemorrhages). Polyposis of the colon, inconclusive radiologic findings and search for a bleeding source were the main indications for the endscopic examination of the colon. Special attention was focused on polyposis, its distribution and estension, radiological appearance and histology. 65% of the polyps with a known tendency to become malignant were found beyond the reach of the rigid rectosigmoidoscope. However, 98% were localized below the splenic flexure.