Colonoscopy or Lower GI Endoscopy

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A colonoscopy is a procedure that examines the inside of your large intestine. It uses a colonoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera, to view the inner lining of your bowel.

The camera projects images of the inside of your bowel to a television screen for the endoscopist to review.

During your colonoscopy:

Biopsies: The endoscopist may take small tissue samples (biopsies) from the lining of your large bowel for examination. This procedure is typically painless.

Photographs: Photographs may be taken during the procedure for your medical records.

Purpose of the Colonoscopy:

You have been recommended a colonoscopy to:

Determine the cause of your symptoms.

Guide treatment options.

Plan further investigations if necessary.

Common reasons for having a colonoscopy include:

Changes in bowel habits: Such as constipation or diarrhoea.
Bleeding from the rectum.
Investigating the cause of anaemia.
Abdominal pain.

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If none of these reasons apply to you, your referring doctor will discuss the specific reasons for recommending this test.

A colonoscopy typically takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete. However, you can expect to spend approximately 2 hours at the hospital in total, from arrival to departure.

Your comfort is crucial during the procedure to ensure its successful completion.

To enhance your comfort, you have a few options:

Sedation: You can choose to receive a sedative medication. This will make you feel drowsy and relaxed throughout the procedure.
Gas: Alternatively, you may receive gas during the procedure. This can help to alleviate any discomfort and promote a sense of calm.

Important Note: Even with gas, you will remain awake but may feel drowsy and have reduced awareness of your surroundings.

We understand that the prospect of a colonoscopy can be anxiety-provoking for some. However, it’s important to remember that this test is crucial if your doctor has recommended it.

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Before Your Procedure:

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:

Diet: Focus on a healthy diet, avoiding foods that worsen your bowel symptoms.
Alcohol: Reduce alcohol consumption.
Smoking: Consider stopping smoking.
Constipation: If constipation is a concern, use laxatives regularly as directed by your doctor.
Hydration: If you are being investigated for diarrhoea, ensure you are well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.

Bowel Preparation:

Importance of Empty Bowel: A completely empty bowel is crucial for a successful colonoscopy. This allows for a thorough examination of your colon lining.

Pre-Procedure Diet (2 days before):

Plain foods only:

Plain chicken or white fish
White rice, pasta, or bread
Clear soup

Laxative Preparation (Day before):

You will receive laxative sachets to prepare your bowel.
Drink the sachets as instructed, typically at varying intervals throughout the day.
Expect Diarrhoea: Diarrhoea is common after starting laxatives. Stay close to a toilet.

Questions: If you have any questions about the bowel preparation instructions, please contact us promptly.

Following your procedure, you will be given time to recover from the procedure in a comfortable setting.

If you received sedation:

The initial effects of sedation typically wear off within 30 minutes. However, some individuals may feel fully alert immediately after the procedure.
During your recovery, our nurses will offer you a drink and something to eat, and closely monitor your oxygen levels, blood pressure, and heart rate.
Sedation can remain in your system for up to 24 hours, and you may experience drowsiness and some memory lapses.

If you had gas: You will be offered a drink and something to eat while your recover from your procedure.

Important Note:

Driving Restrictions: You will not be able to drive after receiving sedation. Please arrange for someone to escort you home and supervise you for 24 hours.

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