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A colonoscopy is a procedure done under anaesthetic to inspect the large bowel (colon). During a colonoscopy, a thin flexible tube called a colonoscope is carefully inserted into the large intestine. A small camera on the colonoscope transmits an image to a monitor, allowing close examination of the bowel and intestinal lining, and pre-cancerous growths called “polyps” are able to be removed through the scope.

For a colonoscopy to be successful, it is essential to empty the bowel thoroughly of all waste material. This is done by taking bowel preparation that will cause diarrhoea. If the colon is not clean, the doctor may not be able to examine the bowel lining properly, and you may have to return for another procedure.

All patients will receive a procedure report on the day and have a brief discussion with the gastroenterologist. If biopsies are taken, results can either be followed up with your GP or with the gastroenterologist, depending on which is most clinically appropriate.