Northern Gastroenterology

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is another technique where an instrument is inserted through the anus to inspect the whole of the large bowel. The colon or large bowel is approximately 1 metre in length. The instrument is passed under light general anaesthetic and enables direct inspection of the colon, looking for evidence of colitis, polyps and tumours.

Bowel preparation is essential for careful visualisation, and this will be explained. The procedure takes a little longer than upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and is slightly more complex with a higher risk profile and slightly higher complication rate. The risks and complications will be discussed at length by the Gastroenterologist.

Following the procedure, patients are usually discharged within 3 to 4 hours, and usually feel quite comfortable although there may be slight bloating and some "wind" in the abdomen and this usually settles within a few hours.

Due to the fact that a general anaesthetic has been administered, it is mandatory that patients do not drive for 24 hours following the procedure.

Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy