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A Colonoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to look at the inner lining of your large intestine using a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope. A colonoscopy helps find ulcers, polyps, tumors, and areas of inflammation or bleeding. During a colonoscopy, tissue samples can be collected and abnormal growths can be taken out.
The test usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, but it may take longer, depending upon what is found and what is done during the test.
It is important to note that with conscious sedation you are able to cooperate fully with the surgical team but will have no recall of the procedure.
Are there any complications/risks?
As with every medical procedure, the risk must be compared to the benefit of having the procedure carried out. The doctor who has requested the procedure will have considered this very carefully. A colonoscopy is what is known as an invasive procedure and therefore carries risks/complications.
The major risks/complications include:-
- Bleeding from the biopsy site or from where a polyp has been removed. This usually settles down on its own.
- Small tear or damage to the lining of the bowel. This risk is higher if a polyp is found and removed. You may need an operation repair any damage.
- An incomplete colonoscopy occurs if the procedure is abandoned due to technical difficulty or because it was causing you distress. The doctor may recommend that you have a barium enema or CT scan so that a complete examination of the colon can be achieved.
Protocol preceding Colonoscopy
Before this test, you will need to clean out your colon to allow a clear view during the procedure. It is essential that you follow the bowel preparation instructions. It is also important to increase your intake of clear fluids on the day before your test. For many people, the prep for a colonoscopy is more trying than the actual test. Plan to stay home during your prep time since you will need to use the bathroom often. The colon prep causes loose, frequent stools so that your colon will be empty for the test. The colon prep may be uncomfortable and you may feel hungry on the clear liquid diet. Be sure to have clear fruit juices (no pulp), tea/coffee (no milk) or soft drinks to drink after the prep because the solution tastes salty and also to prevent dehydration.
YOU WILL BE GIVEN FULL BOWEL PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS WHEN COMPLETING YOUR ADMISSION FORMS
- NB: If you are taking WARFARIN (blood thinning medication) please advise staff on booking your Colonoscopy. Bloods need to be taken five to seven days before the procedure and medication may need to be stopped.
- Please inform unit staff if you are diabetic or possibly pregnant.
- Please be here approximately at 06h00 as booked for paperwork to be completed. If there is a change in time of arrival staff will phone you the day before. Please note that your appointment time is your arrival time and not the time of your procedure. You can expect to be at the Unit for 4 – 6 hours. We try to ensure that all patients are seen and have their tests within a short period of time on arriving at the Unit, but occasionally emergencies take precedence and you may need to wait.
After the procedure you will be monitored for about 2 hours and as soon as you are able to swallow will be offered tea or coffee with sandwiches.
You will be allowed home approximately two to three hours after the procedure.
Please be dropped off in the morning, and have someone collect you later. You are not to drive.
For the next 24 hours, you should not drive, operate power tools, participate in strenuous activity or make major decisions.
At home, you may resume your usual diet and activity. It is not uncommon to feel gas cramps for a short while. Due to the effects of the sedation, you are advised not to drive a car, operate machinery or make legal/financial decisions until the following day. You may notice a small amount of blood with your next bowel movement if samples were taken or polyps removed. Please call 031 7657815 or 0823759611 if you have any of the following:-
- Heavy rectal bleeding.
- Severe belly pain.
- Develop a fever.
- Are very dizzy.
- Are vomiting.
- Have a swollen and firm belly.
Results of the test
You will get the result directly after the procedure. However, many people do not remember this conversation following the effects of sedation. If biopsies were taken or polyps removed, these results may take up to three days to come through. A copy of your colonoscopy report will be sent to your GP.
We charge a non-refundable facility fee, which is not covered by the Medical Aids. An invoice will be submitted to your Medical Aid for consumables, which will be refunded by your Medical Aid according to your plan type. We will obtain all necessary pre-authorization on your behalf.
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