Colonoscopy

What is a Colonoscopy?

The colonoscope is a long flexible tube, which can be inserted through the rectum and allows examination of the large intestine and if possible the last part of the small intestine. Through the colonoscope small tissue samples (biopsies) and polyps can be removed for pathological diagnosis.

Diagnostic indications include:

• Screening or surveillance for colon cancer
• Evaluating signs and symptoms suggestive of possible colonic or lower small bowel disease
• Assessing a response to treatment in patients with known colonic disease (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease)
• Evaluating abnormalities found on imaging studies

Therapeutic indications include:

• Stricture dilation
• Stent placement
• Colonic decompression
• Foreign body removal

In addition, abnormalities found during diagnostic procedures may require therapeutic intervention.

Colon & Bowel Cancer Screening 

Screening tests are check-ups to detect cancer early. Colon or Bowel Cancer Screening can reduce the risk of death from bowel cancer in people over 50 years of age. 

Healthwoods Endoscopy Centre specialises in performing colonoscopy in those individuals who have a positive faecal occult test result as part of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. 

Who should be tested? 

If you have a family history (that means your father, mother, sister or brother have or had bowel cancer) then you have an increased risk of bowel cancer. Men and women who are 50 years of age and over. Please discuss colon cancer screening with your doctor. 

How often should I be screened for bowel / colon cancer? 

Men and women who are 50 and over should be screened for bowel cancer every two years. Please Contact Us to find out more about Colon/Bowel Cancer screening.

Preparation

For more information about preparing for a Colonoscopy, see our Admissions page.