Book an Appointment
Emergency: 022-61305005
I want to find
My Health Records
Management Team

Colonoscopy

Overview

Colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) and rectum. During the procedure, a flexible tube called a colonoscope, equipped with a light and camera, is inserted into the rectum to provide a detailed view of the entire colon. This allows doctors to detect abnormalities, remove polyps, or take tissue samples for further analysis.

Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy in the following cases:

  • Routine Screening: Individuals aged 45 or older are advised to undergo routine screening to detect early signs of colorectal cancer.
  • Rectal Bleeding: Unexplained rectal bleeding could indicate haemorrhoids, polyps, or other conditions requiring further evaluation.
  • Chronic Diarrhoea: Persistent diarrhoea may point to underlying gastrointestinal issues such as infection or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
  • Abdominal Pain: Unexplained abdominal pain could be a sign of conditions like diverticulosis, IBS, or colorectal cancer.
  • Family History: Those with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps need regular surveillance.
  • Inflammatory Bowel Conditions: Monitoring diseases like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or IBS for progression or complications.

Proper preparation is critical for a successful colonoscopy. As a part of preparation, patients are required to follow a clear liquid diet (e.g., water, clear broths) for 24 hours before the procedure. For bowel cleansing, Polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based laxatives are administered to empty the colon. These osmotic laxatives, taken with large amounts of water, ensure thorough cleaning while maintaining electrolyte balance. All solid food should be avoided to ensure a clear view of the colon during the procedure.

Colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure and it usually lasts for only 15–30 minutes. The steps for performing colonoscopy include:

  • Patients are typically given mild sedatives or anaesthesia to ensure comfort.
  • The colonoscope is gently inserted through the rectum and advanced through the colon. Air is inflated into the colon to ensure expansion of colon.
  • The entire colon is examined for abnormalities. If necessary, polyps can be removed, and tissue samples may be taken for biopsy.

Benefits of colonoscopy include:

  • Early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer.
  • Removal of precancerous polyps.
  • Monitoring and managing gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.

  • Sigmoidoscopy: A similar procedure which examines only the lower colon but may miss abnormalities in the upper colon.
  • CT Colonography: A procedure that uses imaging to visualize the colon but cannot perform biopsies or remove polyps.
  • Stool Tests: Useful for initial screening but lack detailed diagnostic capabilities.

While colonoscopy is generally safe, potential side effects include:

  • Bloating or Cramps: Temporary discomfort caused by air introduced during the procedure.
  • Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur if polyps are removed or biopsies are taken.
  • Rare Complications: Perforation of the colon or adverse reactions to sedation are extremely rare.
Bottom to top