ColonoscopyColonoscopy is a procedure which involves using a flexible, fibro optic scope for the examination of the lining of the large bowel.
Indications may include, but not limited to:
This is an excellent tool for discovering small polyps or other small and early lesions which is more accurate than X-ray (Barium enema) examination.
The rectum and colon must be completely emptied of stool for the procedure to be performed so special preparation of the large bowel is required. It includes two days of clear liquids diet and drinking of the special bowel cleansing solution Fleet Phospho Soda (or Pico-Salax). Detailed instructions regarding bowel preparation usually are given at the time of scheduling the procedure. Please, follow them precisely.
Before the procedure we will give you an injection of sedative which causes drowsiness although you will remain conscious.
During the Colonoscopy you usually lie down on your left side and the scope is inserted into your anus (back passage) and then proceeds all the way to the junction of the small and large bowel. Sometimes we remove polyps or take tissue samples (biopsies) during the procedure for more detailed examination in the laboratory.
The procedure is usually very well tolerated but some pressure can be felt due to the air that we blow into the bowel to improve the view of the intestinal wall. If it makes you want to pass wind you encouraged to do so to relieve any discomfort.
Usually it takes only 10 to 30 minutes to finish the procedure and you will be discharged home soon after. You are not allowed to drive or operate machinery for 24 hours after the examination due to used sedative medications. This examination is very safe but some very uncommon complications can occur. One of them is a tear (perforation) through the lining of the intestinal wall. If this occurs you may require an operation to correct the problem. Another one is a bleeding from the site of a biopsy or polypectomy and it may require repeating the colonoscopy to stop the bleeding. Blood transfusions are rarely indicated. A reaction to the sedative medication and local irritation to the vein can occur as well.
It is important to contact your surgeon or a family doctor if you notice: