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A colonoscopy is a day-case procedure in which the inside of the large intestine (colon and rectum) is examined. A colonoscopy is commonly used to evaluate gastrointestinal symptoms, such as rectal and intestinal bleeding, or changes in bowel habit. Colonoscopy is also advised in individuals without symptoms to check for colorectal polyps or cancer. A screening colonoscopy is recommended for anyone aged 45 years or older, and persons with a family history of colon polyps or cancer should be screened at an age 10 years younger than it was diagnosed in the family member.
The doctor will insert a long flexible instrument into the rectum and will advance to the caecum (beginning of the colon). If necessary pieces of tissue (biopsy) can be removed for testing, and polyps can be identified and removed. The colonoscopy may allow accurate diagnosis and treatment of colorectal problems, without the need for a major operation. The colonoscope is disinfected between procedures. You will have an intravenous line inserted (a “drip”) and will be lying on your left side. A sedative and a pain-relieving drug will be administered; to make you more relaxed during the procedure. Your vital signs are monitored, and you will be breathing oxygen to maintain a normal blood oxygen concentration. The procedure lasts between 20 and 40 minutes on average, and you will be allowed to rest until fully awake. You may feel slightly bloated and uncomfortable after the procedure, due to air inserted into your colon to improve visualization.
You will remain in a recovery room for observation until you are ready for discharge. You may feel some cramping or a sensation of having gas, but this soon passes. A responsible adult must drive you home. Avoid driving and operating machinery for 24 hours. Avoid alcohol and take a course of QuatroFlora capsules to restore intestinal flora.
Unless otherwise directed you may resume your normal diet after the colonoscopy. Wait until the day after the procedure before resuming normal activities e.g. exercise. If polyps were removed or biopsies taken, avoid using aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs for 2 weeks. Paracetamol e.g. Panado, Tylenol etc may be used. If you are on anti-coagulants e.g. Warfarin or Plavix, your physician will advise when it is safe for you to restart the medication.
If a biopsy was taken or a polyp removed, mild rectal bleeding may be noted for 1-2 days after the procedure. If heavier bleeding is encountered e.g. clots of blood, or if you have severe abdominal pain, this must be reported immediately. If you are unable to contact the physician, report to the emergency department of the clinic or hospital where the procedure was performed.
This practice is dedicated to providing care of the highest ethical and medical standards. Our approach is one of careful and thorough assessment with the aim of problem-solving. We also aim to empower our clients with knowledge to better understand and manage their condition.