Colonoscopy

What is colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is an examination of the colon and rectum for signs of abnormalities. A tube that carries a small lens (known as a colonoscope) is inserted into the colon so that your doctor can look into the large bowel.

Who can benefit from a colonoscopy?

Individual’s who have certain symptoms may be asked to have a colonoscopy. This can help determine what the problem (if any) may be. Treatment may be recommend if symptoms including bleeding from the anus, stomach pains and persistent diarrhoea occur, which may be early signs of certain disorders. These include bowel cancer, Crohn’s disease and polyps (extra tissue growths which can become cancerous), as well as various other conditions.

Procedure

A colonoscopy takes around 30 minutes to an hour to complete, and you will be given a sedative to help you relax and minimize any pain. You will be asked to lie on your side and your doctor will firstly examine your rectum with a lubricated, gloved finger before inserting the colonoscope. Air is passed through the colonoscope to help the bowel to expand, making it easier to see inside the bowel and the lining walls (which may feel slightly uncomfortable). You may need to change positions during the procedure. If polyps are found, these may be removed during the colonoscopy (a quick and painless procedure). A biopsy may also be taken and sent for analysis. The colonoscope is then removed.

Recovery

You will be able to return home the same day but will need someone to drive if necessary, as it may take up to 24 hours for the full effects of the sedative to wear off. It is common to feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours following the colonoscopy. You may also pass blood from your bowels the first time you go to the toilet.

Risks

Complications following the colonoscopy procedure are rare. However if you experience persistent bleeding from your rectum, persistent abdominal pain or develop a fever or high temperature, you should contact your doctor. There is also a small chance of developing breathing problems as a reaction to the sedative.

References

Bupa
Department of Health
Mayo Clinic
Private Healthcare UK
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse