Colonoscopy

What is Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy lets your doctor examine the large intestines (colon) to find out the cause of bowel-related issues. Colonoscopes have several hollow channels for suction, air & water delivery and biopsy taking. The examination uses a flexible fibreoptic camera inserted through the anal canal into the large intestine.

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Why it is Done?

To help diagnose lower gastrointestinal tract bleeding or blood in stool

To discover the cause of acute and chronic diarrhoea

To screen for colorectal polyps and cancers

Is There Any Risk?

Colonoscopy is a safe procedure. There is a minimal risk of bleeding or perforation (tear in the bowel). Fewer than 0.001% of people experience bleeding or perforation.

What You Can Expect

Before the procedure

	A low-fibre diet is prescribed before the exam. Fasting is required for atleast 8 hours before the exam.
	Laxatives are given to cleanse the bowel.
	Inform your doctor if you are on any anti-coagulants, anti-platelets or blood thinners.

After the procedure

It takes about an hour to recover from the sedation. It is recommended for you to have someone take you home because it can take up to a day for the full effects of the sedative to wean off.

Do not drive, make important decisions or go back to work for the rest of the day.

Bloating and passing wind are common occurrences after the procedure. Walking may help to relieve discomfort.

If a biopsy or polypectomy was performed, you may notice

a small amount of blood in the first bowel movement after the exam. This is usually not a cause for alarm.

Discharge Instructions Post-scope

You are encouraged to start your diet by sipping water or cool liquids and having soft food. You can resume your normal diet once you feel better.
In some instance, you may not have fully recovered from the sedation.
You are NOT encouraged to drive, operate heavy machinery, drink alcohol, conduct business or sign legal documents.
You are advised to go home and REST. If you have problems, go straight to the hospital for further assessment.

Complications

Bleeding (usually after a biopsy or removal of a polyp)

Perforation or puncturing in the digestive tract

Infections

Depressed breathing from sedation