Colonoscopy

This webpage will give you information about a colonoscopy. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure to look at the inside of the large bowel (colon) using a flexible telescope (see figure 1).

Sometimes a polyp is the cause of the problem and the endoscopist may be able to remove it during the procedure.

Diagram of colon

Figure 1 - The large bowel

Are there any alternatives to a colonoscopy?

Other options include a barium enema (an x-ray test of the large bowel) or a CT colography (a special scan of the large bowel).

What does the procedure involve?

A colonoscopy usually takes between half an hour and three-quarters of an hour.

If appropriate, the endoscopist may offer you a sedative or painkiller.

The endoscopist will place a flexible telescope into the back passage. Air will be blown into the large bowel so that they have a clear view. The endoscopist will be able to look for problems such as inflammation or polyps. They will be able to perform biopsies and take photographs to help make the diagnosis.

What complications can happen?

Allergic reaction
Breathing difficulties or heart irregularities
Making a hole in the colon
Bleeding
Incomplete procedure

How soon will I recover?

If you were given a sedative, you will normally recover in about two hours. You may feel a bit bloated for a few hours but this will pass.

A member of the healthcare team will tell you what was found during the colonoscopy and will discuss with you any treatment or follow-up you need.

You should be able to go back to work the day after the colonoscopy.

Summary

A colonoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if you have a problem with your large bowel.

Acknowledgements

Author: Mr Simon Parsons DM FRCS (Gen. Surg.)

This document is intended for information purposes only and should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.

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The information should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.