COLONOSCOPY

Colonoscopy is a procedure that allows us to visually examine the inside of the colon (large intestine) to detect any disease or polyps. It is accomplished by inserting a tube with a camera on the end into the anus and through the colon. The images from the camera are viewed on a display monitor. The procedure is carried out under moderate sedation so that you are most How to prepare:

The colon must be completely clean for the examination to be carried out with complete satisfaction and accuracy. You will usually be given a special cleansing solution to drink before the exam, or may be asked to consume only a clear liquid diet. Most medications can still be taken, although some such as blood thinners may require special instructions.

Who should do it

Colon cancer is the most common cancer in Singapore and most patients are diagnosed after the age of 50 years. Everyone over the age of 50 years should go for some form of colon cancer screening. This age is dynamic and screening should begin earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer.

Irrespective of age, if you have one or more of the following symptoms, your doctor may advise you to go for a colonoscopy.

1. Bleeding in stools/ rectal bleeding
2. Change of bowel habits
3. Excessive mucous in stools
4. Lower abdominal pain with loose stools
5. Unexplained loss of weight
6. Anaemia
7. Long standing constipation or diarrhoea
   
   

How to prepare

The colon must be completely clean for the examination to be carried out with complete satisfaction and accuracy. You will usually be given a special cleansing solution to drink before the exam, or may be asked to consume only a clear liquid diet. Most medications can still be taken, although some such as blood thinners may require special instructions.

During the colonoscopy

Before the colonoscopy, a small cannula is inserted into your arm through which a sedative is given to make you relaxed and sleepy. The heart, blood pressure and oxygenation of the blood are monitored throughout the procedure. You will be lying on your left side or back as the colonoscope is slowly inserted. The scope is inserted all the way to the end of the colon and then the lining is examined on the way out. The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes. Biopsies and removal of polyps are all performed during the procedure, if necessary.

After the procedure, patients will be kept under observation for about an hour, until the medication wears off. We advise against driving and doing any strenuous activities that day. You will be able to eat soon after you wake up after the procedure.

Is it safe

Complications of a colonoscopy are very rare and usually minor. The procedure is very safe when performed by a trained and experienced professional. These may include complications such as bleeding, perforation of the bowel wall or sedation related complications. These will be discussed with you prior to the procedure by your doctor.