A Colonoscopy is an examination of the lining of the large bowel (intestine) A colonoscopy is performed for a number of reasons such as:
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A Colonoscopy is an examination of the lining of the large bowel (intestine). A small flexible tube (the endoscope) is inserted in to the anus and advanced through the length of the bowel to the entrance of the small bowel. The endoscope sends images to a screen where the specialist can identify any abnormalities such as polyps which can be removed or biopsies of the bowel lining can be taken and then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
A colonoscopy is usually preformed under sedation and will take approximately 20-30 minutes.
You cannot have food for 6 hours prior to your procedure you may have clear fluids up to 2 hours prior to your admission then nothing to drink including water
Most people have sedation for their procedure and therefore you must
This procedure is only available at all our facilities:
Prior to your procedure you must have no food for 6 hours and no liquids for 2 hours.
It is very important you tell your specialist up to five days in advance about any medications you take. If you are on essential medications you may be able to take them with small sips of water the day of your procedure.
On arrival a nurse will confirm your details and you will be asked to sign a consent form for the procedure.
Before the procedure, if you are having a sedative, it will be administered. This will make you relaxed and sleepy but will not make you unconscious.
You will be monitored throughout the procedure by medical staff to ensure you are as comfortable.
The procedure usually takes on average 10-15 minutes depending on what your specialist is investigating
After your colonoscopy you will be taken into the recovery room where you will rest to allow the sedation to wear off. You will be there for at least one hour after the procedure if you have received intravenous sedation.
Once your sedation has worn off your specialist will discuss your examination results with you and a written summary will be given to you for your reference. A copy of your report will also be sent to your GP.
If you have received sedation you must have someone to take you home after the test and stay with you, as you will be drowsy and unable to drive. The sedative may also affect your ability to recollect details about your procedure so you are welcome to have someone with you when you receive your report.
Sedation should wear off in a few hours. You should stay off work the day of your procedure but can resume normal activities the following day.
To read more on the dietary instructions and process for this procedure, we have our in-depth resources ready for you to view and download