What is a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the inner lining of your large intestine (colon and rectum) using a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope. A small video camera attached to the colonoscope transmits images to a monitor, allowing your doctor to carefully examine the colon for polyps, inflammation, ulcers, and other abnormalities.
During a colonoscopy, tissue samples (biopsies) can be collected and abnormal growths such as polyps can be removed. Colonoscopy is also the gold standard screening test for colorectal cancer.
Quality Benchmarked
Our practice achieves an Adenoma Detection Rate of >75% (benchmark: 25%), a Sessile Serrated Lesion Detection Rate of >45%, and a Caecal Intubation Rate of >99%. We use high-definition endoscopes with virtual chromoendoscopy (NBI/BLI) to enhance polyp detection.
Why might I need a colonoscopy?
- Screening for colorectal cancer (especially if you are over 50 or have a family history)
- Investigation of a positive National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) test
- Investigation of blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Persistent change in bowel habit
- Unexplained abdominal pain
- Surveillance of inflammatory bowel disease
- Follow-up after previous polyp removal
- Investigation of iron deficiency anaemia
Before Your Colonoscopy
A thorough bowel preparation is essential for a safe and accurate colonoscopy. You will need to follow a specific low-fibre diet in the week before your procedure and take a bowel preparation solution to cleanse the colon. Our rooms will provide you with detailed instructions when your appointment is booked.
During the Procedure
Colonoscopy is performed under light sedation (twilight anaesthesia) administered by a specialist anaesthetist. The procedure itself usually takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, though you should expect to be in hospital for 3 to 4 hours in total. If polyps are found, they are usually removed during the same procedure.
After Your Colonoscopy
You will be monitored in the recovery area until the sedation wears off. You will need someone to collect you from hospital as you will not be allowed to drive for 24 hours. Our nurse will contact you approximately 2 weeks after your procedure to discuss the results, which are also sent to your referring doctor.
Item Numbers
Colonoscopy: MBS item numbers 32222 to 32229.
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