What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure that uses a thin flexible tube with a tiny camera attached to look inside your bowel.
A doctor may suggest a colonoscopy if you have bowel problems or symptoms, or if you have completed a bowel cancer screening test that has returned a positive result.
It may also be recommended because of your previous colonoscopy results or family history.
Surgery: what to expect
- A pre-op assessment will be conducted to collect vital health information and discuss the procedure process. Following this, a colonoscopy appointment will be made.
- The colonoscopy procedure is performed under deep sedation and takes approximately 30 minutes.
- After the procedure, your doctor will discuss the findings and provide written instructions on post-procedure care. You will usually be able to go home approximately 2 hours after the sedation wears off. It is recommended that you have someone stay with you the night after the colonoscopy.
- A follow-up appointment will be made, and a full report will be sent to your referring GP.
What is a Gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy is a procedure that involves passing a small, flexible fibre-optic camera down the mouth into the stomach and the first part of the small bowel.
Gastroscopy is a useful test to diagnose problems such as Barrett’s oesophagitis, reflux oesophagitis, stomach ulcers, cancer and coeliac disease.
