Endoscopy

A colonoscopy is a common day procedure used to examine the bowel, colon or large intestine. It helps diagnose and treat various conditions affecting the colon and rectum. 

Colonoscopies can be used to assess and investigate:  

• anaemia, a lack of red blood cells
• a positive Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
• changes in bowel habit
• chronic constipation, diarrhoea or abdominal pain
• colorectal cancer  Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• rectal bleeding
• unexplained weight loss

The procedure is performed using a long, flexible plastic tube called a colonoscope. Under sedation or light anaesthesia, the colonoscope is inserted via the rectum into the colon allowing the doctor to carefully examine the lining of the bowel. If abnormal tissue is identified, a biopsy may be taken for further evaluation. If polyps are found during a colonoscopy, a polypectomy may also be performed to remove these small growths. 

Most colonoscopies are performed under full sedation, but it is possible to perform them with little or no sedation. Your doctor will discuss the best option for you.  

Preparation 

Preparation typically begins two to three days before the procedure and includes: 

• drinking a special bowel preparation solution to clear the large intestine
• fasting for a set period
• following a specific diet

Your doctor or care team will provide detailed instructions, which must be followed carefully. Incomplete preparation may result in your colonoscopy being rescheduled. 

Gastroscopy is a commonly performed procedure used to examine the inside of the upper gastrointestinal tract and duodenum. It is used to investigate symptoms such as indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting. Gastroscopy can also be used to detect ulcers or tumours. 

The procedure is conducted using an endoscope - a long, thin, flexible tube with a small camera at the tip. The endoscope is passed through the mouth and oesophagus, into the stomach and duodenum. The camera transmits an image to a monitor which allows the surgeon to review the lining of the upper GI tract. 

During the procedure, your surgeon may remove any polyps that have been found or take a biopsy of abnormal tissue for further examination. 

Preparation 

Your care team will provide detailed preparation instructions. In most cases, you will need to fast for a specific period to ensure your stomach is empty. 

If you are undergoing a colonoscopy at the same time, you will also receive bowel preparation instructions.