Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside lining of the large bowel (colon and rectum). It is commonly performed to investigate bowel symptoms, screen for bowel cancer, and assess or monitor conditions affecting the colon.

During the procedure, a thin flexible camera called a colonoscope is passed gently through the anus and advanced through the colon. The camera allows detailed examination of the bowel lining and enables biopsies or removal of polyps if required.

Why is a Colonoscopy Performed?

A colonoscopy may be recommended to investigate:

  • Rectal bleeding

  • Change in bowel habit

  • Abdominal pain

  • Iron deficiency anaemia

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Positive bowel cancer screening test

  • Chronic diarrhoea

  • Suspected Inflammatory bowel disease

Colonoscopy is also used for bowel cancer screening and surveillance in patients with previous polyps, bowel cancer, or family history of colorectal cancer.

Preparation

A clear bowel is essential to allow accurate examination. Prior to the procedure, patients are required to complete a bowel preparation which involves:

  • A special low-residue diet

  • Clear fluids

  • Laxative preparation to empty the bowel

Detailed instructions are provided before the procedure.

During the Procedure

Colonoscopy is usually performed under sedation to maximise comfort.

During the procedure:

  • The colonoscope is advanced through the large bowel

  • The bowel lining is carefully examined

  • Polyps may be removed

  • Biopsies may be taken if required

After the Procedure

Patients are monitored during recovery until the sedation wears off. Mild bloating or cramping can occur temporarily due to air used during the examination.

Because sedation is commonly used, patients should not drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for 24 hours after the procedure.

Gastroscopy

A gastroscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy, is a procedure used to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and first part of the small bowel (duodenum).

A thin flexible camera called a gastroscope is passed through the mouth to assess the upper digestive tract.

Why is a Gastroscopy Performed?

Gastroscopy may be recommended to investigate:

  • Reflux or heartburn

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Upper abdominal pain

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Iron deficiency anaemia

  • Bleeding

  • Indigestion

  • Unexplained weight loss

It can also be used to diagnose conditions such as ulcers, inflammation, coeliac disease, or upper gastrointestinal cancers.

Preparation

Patients are usually required to fast for several hours before the procedure so the stomach is empty.

Specific fasting instructions will be provided before the procedure.

During the Procedure

Gastroscopy is commonly performed with sedation.

During the procedure:

  • The gastroscope is passed gently through the mouth

  • The lining of the upper digestive tract is examined

  • Biopsies may be taken if required

After the Procedure

Patients are monitored in recovery until the sedation wears off. Mild throat discomfort or bloating may occur temporarily.

Because sedation is commonly used, patients should not drive or make important decisions for 24 hours after the procedure.