A colonoscopy (koe-lun-OS-kuh-pee) is an exam used to detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and rectum.
During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the entire colon.
If necessary, polyps or other types of abnormal tissue can be removed through the scope during a colonoscopy. Tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken during a colonoscopy as well.
A colonoscopy poses few risks. Rarely, complications of a colonoscopy may include:
After discussing the risks of colonoscopy with you, your doctor will ask you to sign a consent form authorising the procedure.
To empty your colon, your doctor may ask you to:
The sedative is combined with an intravenous pain medication to minimise any discomfort.
You'll begin the exam lying on your side on the exam table, usually with your knees drawn toward your chest. The doctor will insert a colonoscope into your rectum.
The scope — which is long enough to reach the entire length of your colon — contains a light and a tube (channel) that allows the doctor to pump air or carbon dioxide into your colon. The air or carbon dioxide inflates the colon, which provides a better view of the lining of the colon.
When the scope is moved or air is introduced, you may feel abdominal cramping or the urge to have a bowel movement.
The colonoscope also contains a tiny video camera at its tip. The camera sends images to an external monitor so that the doctor can study the inside of your colon.
The doctor can also insert instruments through the channel to take tissue samples (biopsies) or remove polyps or other areas of abnormal tissue.
A colonoscopy typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
You'll need someone to take you home because it can take up to a day for the full effects of the sedative to wear off. Don't drive or make important decisions or go back to work for the rest of the day.
If your doctor removed a polyp during your colonoscopy, you may be advised to eat a special diet temporarily.
You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the exam, as you clear the air from your colon. Walking may help relieve any discomfort.
You may also notice a small amount of blood with your first bowel movement after the exam. Usually this isn't cause for alarm. Consult your doctor if you continue to pass blood or blood clots or if you have persistent abdominal pain or a fever. While unlikely, this may occur immediately or in the first few days after the procedure, but may be delayed for up to one to two weeks.
Your doctor may recommend that you have another colonoscopy:
Most polyps aren't cancerous, but some can be precancerous. Polyps removed during colonoscopy are sent to a laboratory for analysis to determine whether they are cancerous, precancerous or noncancerous.
Depending on the size and number of polyps, you may need to follow a more rigorous surveillance schedule in the future to look for more polyps.
If your doctor finds one or two polyps less than 0.4 inch (1 centimetre) in diameter, he or she may recommend a repeat colonoscopy in five to 10 years, depending on your other risk factors for colon cancer.
Your doctor will recommend another colonoscopy sooner if you have:
If you have a polyp or other abnormal tissue that couldn't be removed during the colonoscopy, your doctor may recommend a repeat exam with a gastroenterologist who has special expertise in removing large polyps, or surgery.
If your doctor is concerned about the quality of the view through the scope, he or she may recommend a repeat colonoscopy or a shorter time until your next colonoscopy. If your doctor wasn't able to advance the scope through your entire colon, a barium enema or virtual colonoscopy may be recommended to examine the rest of your colon. At The Chartwell Hospital, our consultants will work with you carefully to determine the options that best suit your needs and preferences going forward.
We can provide consultations with a highly experienced Medical Practitioner for patients who require a Colonoscopy or. To arrange your consultation please click on the book now button below to submit your details you will be contacted to schedule your appointment at your earliest convenience. During your consultation, your Medical Practitioner will discuss your symptoms and create a management plan based on your needs. A diagnostic referral is included in the price is required.
Before you go ahead with your procedure, you will be informed of the costs and everything will be clearly explained before you book. At The Chartwell Hospital, we make it our mission to guide you through every stage of your health journey. If you are experiencing the symptoms mentioned above please get in touch and book a consultation.
If you have a referral from your GP stating the procedure required, please send the referral to our patient care team at HERE, once received a member of our team will contact you by telephone to arrange your appointment.
The Chartwell Hospital offer virtual and in person consultations with a highly qualified Medical Practitioner, who can provide a diagnostic referral if required. We can support you by discussing your symptoms and recommend the best possible plan for your condition.
To book a consultation with one of our Medical Professionals, please start by completing our online form by clicking the button below.