Colonoscopy Brisbane & Gold Coast
What is a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a day procedure performed under sedation. It involves the passage of a colonoscope through the anus into the entire colon and including the terminal part of the small intestine (terminal ileum). It allows the identification of polyps, cancers and inflammatory conditions of the colon.
Who needs to have a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is indicated for patients with a family history of bowel cancer or polyps or in patients who have symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, altered bowel habits, constipation, rectal bleeding or a positive faecal occult blood test (FOBT).
Colonoscopy can be very effective in the early detection of polyps and the removal of polyps will prevent the development of bowel cancer. Any polyps that are identified during the colonoscopy can be removed by polypectomy and large polyps can be removed by endoscopic mucosal resection. Tumours (if identified) will be biopsied to obtained a confirmatory diagnosis.
Dr Terence Chua is a colorectal surgeon who performs colonoscopy procedures across Brisbane, Redland, Sunnybank and the Gold Coast, Queensland.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
In preparation for colonoscopy, it is important to ensure a clean colon. This will allow safe navigation of the tortuous colon and good visualization of polyps for detection and removal.
Colonoscopy preparation involves:
Clear fluids for 24 hours prior to colonoscopy (sports drink i.e. Gatorade, lemonade, apple juice, jelly, black tea or clear broth). No solid food is allowed.
Purging of the colon - this is performed by taking 3 doses of PicoPrep at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm the day before the procedure to achieve bowel movement and clearing of the colon. Patients having afternoon colonoscopy can have the 3 doses of PicoPrep at 6pm and 8pm the day prior, and 6am in the morning on the day of the colonoscopy.
Fasting is to be commenced 6 hours prior to the procedure. If the procedure is in the morning, fast (no solids or liquids) from midnight the day before, and if it is an afternoon procedure, fast (no solids or liquids) from 7am.
Can I have a colonoscopy if I am on blood thinning medication?
Blood thinning medication may need to be ceased prior to a colonoscopy. If you are on any blood thinners, please ensure that Dr Chua is aware and he will advise you accordingly.
How long does a colonoscopy take to perform?
The procedure time is estimated to be between 30 and 60 minutes to perform, and upon completion you will need 1-2 hours to recover before being allowed to leave the hospital. You will need someone to pick you up from the hospital following your procedure as it is unsafe for you to travel alone or drive a vehicle. Results of your biopsy should be available within 2 weeks of your procedure.