it's what's on the
inside
that counts.
What is a
Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a surgical procedure which enables a surgeon to examine the colon in detail. It is used to examine the inside of the large bowel known as the colon. It is also used to diagnose or treat conditions such as altered bowel habit, constipation, rectal bleeding, or a positive faecal occult blood test (FOBT). It is also indicated in those with a family history of colorectal cancer, or previous polyps.
The procedure is performed with the use of a colonoscope which is a flexible tube with a tiny video camera on the end. This allows surgeons to see the picture from the tip, on a monitor screen. An alternative method for looking at the bowel is Barium enema X-ray but colonoscopy is more accurate. Only colonoscopy can be used to take biopsies or remove polyps.
Why you may need a
Colonoscopy?
A critical reason a Colonoscopy may be recommended is to screen for colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Australia. Annually, it is estimated that about 17,000 people in Australia are diagnosed with bowel cancer. Although it is most common in people over 50 and over, it can occur at any age.
About one in 20 men and one in 28 women will develop bowel cancer before the age of 75. Colonoscopy may also be recommended by your doctor to evaluate for symptoms such as If you symptoms that include bleeding and chronic diarrhoea, your GP may have ordered a consultation with a bowel specialist like me.
How to prepare for your colonoscopy procedure.
Your General Practitioner will tell you in general what you can expect for this type of procedure. However, more detailed information will be provided to you during your consultation with me.
For instance, what dietary restrictions to follow and what cleansing routine to use. A standard preparation consists of either consuming a large volume of a special cleansing solution or clear liquids and special oral laxatives. It is important that the colon is completely clean for optimal procedural results. Your consultation with me is your opportunity to ask any questions you have about the procedure and what to expect from your recovery experience. I use the most advanced techniques and technology to achieve the optimal result for my patients.