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Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is a visual examination of the lining of your large bowel (colon) with sedation. A flexible tube (about the thickness of the little finger) is passed through the rectum and around the colon. A small video camera, which can take photos, sends an image onto a video screen. The doctor looks for any abnormalities and if necessary, biopsies (small tissue samples) can be painlessly taken through the colonoscope using tiny forceps. These biopsies are examined under a microscope in the laboratory. 

Polyps (abnormal growths of tissue) can be removed with biopsy forceps or cold snaring and large polyps are removed using a diathermy snare. This is done by passing a wire loop, like a lasso, over the polyp. The polyp is cut from the bowel lining using electrical current, which seals the tissue and stops bleeding. This current cannot be felt and causes no pain.

During your procedure you will be given sedation. It is important that you arrange for someone to drive you home following your procedure. You are not permitted, by law, to drive yourself.  For safety reasons, if you are travelling on public transport, or in a taxi, please arrange for a support person to travel with you.

Why your doctor may suggest a colonoscopy

A colonoscopy may be suggested by your doctor if you have: 

  • Abnormal barium x-ray or abnormal CT Colonography
  • Bleeding from the bowel 
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Family history of bowel cancer 
  • Alteration in bowel habit e.g. diarrhoea, constipation
  • Occult (unseen) blood in the stool 
  • Anaemia
  • Previous treatment for polyps, bowel cancer or colitis.

Preparation

Your colon must be completely empty of faecal material for the procedure to be thorough and safe. If it is not entirely clean certain areas may be obscured and the test may have to be repeated. Following the preparation, the return from your bowel should resemble urine (pale yellow). This will involve modifications to your diet. You will be given more specific instructions about this including a liquid diet for one to two days and the bowel preparation (laxative). Prior to your procedure it is important for your doctor to know your medical history and in particular any previous endoscopies. Bring a list of your current medication with you, together with any relevant x-rays or barium studies. Fully disclose any health problems you may have had as these may interfere with your colonoscopy, sedation or recovery. 

YOU SHOULD MENTION: 

  • An allergy or bad reaction to medicines or anaesthetics
  • Taking medication to thin your blood including Warfarin, Dabigatran, Rivaroxaban, Aspirin or antiplatelet medication: e.g. Clopidogrel or Ticagrelor. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking these medications prior to your procedure or you may be given an alternative dose
  • Artificial hip or knee joints
  • Prolonged bleeding/clotting disorders or excessive bruising
  • Diabetes – You must discuss this with your doctor or nurse before undertaking any period of fasting
  • Heart and lung problems including artificial heart valves and pacemakers
  • Cardiac stents in the last six months
  • If you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

RECOMMENDED BOWEL PREPARATION

As part of the preparation for your procedure, you will be advised by your doctor which oral solution to take. Click on AM or PM to find out more information about what you need to do.

  • Moviprep AM PM
  • Glycoprep C AM PM
  • Picoprep & Glycoprep AM PM

Procedure

Your medical history will be recorded and you will be given the opportunity to view an information DVD before changing into a hospital gown. You will be asked to sign a consent form, indicating that you understand the risks involved with the procedure. You will change into a hospital gown. In the examination room you will be supported by two nurses and given intravenous sedation to make you sleepy and relaxed. If required, it may be necessary to hold your hands and legs ensuring your safety. At all times your privacy and dignity will be respected. Your heart rate and oxygen levels will be monitored during the procedure. The endoscope is gently inserted into the bowel, which is inflated with CO2 to obtain a good view. The CO2 may cause wind-like cramps, but will pass quickly. Sometimes you may be asked to roll onto your back or side, or the nurse may need to press on your abdomen to help the doctor guide the colonoscope. The examination can take between 10 and 60 minutes. 

AFTER THE TEST 

CO2 remaining in your bowel may cause bloating and discomfort but soon eases. You will be asked to rest for 15 minutes to half an hour until the effects of the sedation have worn off. Light refreshments are offered (please advise us of any dietary requirements). The doctor will discuss the procedure with you and will give you a written discharge information sheet. Due to the possible amnesic effects of the sedation, you may wish to have a support person with you when the doctor gives you the results. The report and results of any biopsies will be sent to your specialist and/or family doctor who referred you for the test.

SEDATION

Sedation is generally used during the procedure. It is important that you do not drive or operate machinery for 12 hours after your procedure. Your expected time of stay in hospital is about three to four hours. Please arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards. You are not permitted, by law, to drive yourself. For safety reasons, if you are travelling on public transport, or in a taxi, please arrange for a support person to travel with you.

Risks

Risks from a simple examination without any endoscopic therapy are very rare, but can occur after diagnostic therapeutic intervention i.e. removal of polyps.

Damage to the wall of the bowel by the instrument can cause a tear or perforation with leakage into the abdomen. This requires hospitalisation, antibiotics and sometimes surgery. (Risk factor: 1 in 1000 procedures) Internal bleeding may occur from the site of the biopsy or polyp removal. It is usually minor and stops on its own.

Reaction to the sedation is rare. A polyp or lesion can be missed. The risks of missing polyps/lesions are higher if your bowel is not cleaned properly. If symptoms persist, other investigations may be indicated and you are advised to revisit your doctor. 

If you would like further clarification of these rare complications, please discuss them with your specialist or nurse on admission. 

PLEASE READ THESE POINTS CAREFULLY:

  • You must contact your doctor if you suffer severe or prolonged pain or vomiting, passing of blood or high temperature
  • If you have any questions or concerns please raise these with your doctor or nurse before the procedure.

Colonoscopy Procedure - Printable Copy

To download a printable copy click here.

Payment Details

  • We advise you to apply to your insurance company for prior approval before your admission
  • Bring your health insurance prior approval letter to your appointment
  • With the exception of Southern Cross, once your account has been finalised, we will forward your invoice to your insurance company
  • If you do not have medical insurance or prior approval from your medical insurance, we will calculate an estimated total cost of your procedure and a deposit will be required on admission.  On completion of your stay your account will be processed and the amount adjusted accordingly. The total amount charged varies from patient to patient and any extra charges are to be settled on discharge.