Common Conditions

Colonoscopy: Overview

This is an information sheet which advises you of the pros and cons of having an lower gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and answers common worries that patients have. It is not intended to replace a consultation nor is it intended to be a textbook of surgery. An lower GI endoscopy is a procedure to look at the inside of the colon / large bowel using a flexible telescope. This procedure is sometimes known as a colonoscopy. The commonest reason for undertaking this procedure is to diagnose an underlying problem such as inflammation (colitis), diverticular disease, polyps or cancer of the large bowel.

Complications from this procedure are unlikely. Allergic reactions, over sedation, abdominal bloating and bleeding from a biopsy site can occur. A significant complication occurs in about 1 in 1,000 colonoscopies e.g. perforation.

On balance, the risks of not undertaking the procedure outweigh the risks and you have been recommended to have a colonoscopy. Closer to the date of your operation, you will receive an appointment for a pre-operative visit to the hospital. You will receive further details of the operation and pre-operative preparations then, and will have the opportunity to ask any questions. However, if you have any worries that cannot wait until then, please make an appointment for my Out-patient Clinic at the hospital.