Procedures
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy allows close examination of the colon and rectum, often following symptoms that warrant investigation and for bowel cancer screening and surveillance.
When is a colonoscopy recommended?
A colonoscopy may be recommended to investigate bowel symptoms, assessment following a positive faecal occult blood test (FOBT), or because of a personal or family history of bowel disease.
Common reasons for referral include:
- Intestinal symptoms, such as a persistent change in your usual bowel pattern, diarrhoea or constipation, rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, or mucus.
- Unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, iron deficiency or anaemia.
- Recurrent or unexplained abdominal pain, cramping or bloating.
- Surveillance due to a personal or family history of colorectal disease.
- A positive faecal occult blood test (FOBT).
- Colorectal cancer screening when you are within your recommended age group.
Bowel Cancer Screening
Bowel cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in Australia. Changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding or mucus, unexplained weight loss, or other persistent symptoms should not be ignored.
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program provides free home screening for eligible Australians aged 45–74. People with symptoms or increased risk, such as a family history of bowel cancer, inflammatory bowel disease or polyps, may require assessment beyond routine screening.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a relatively quick procedure performed under sedation and typically takes around 30 minutes. A thin tube called a colonoscope, with a small camera at its tip, is gently inserted through the rectum and guided through the colon for examination.
A range of conditions, such as diverticular disease, inflammation, haemorrhoids or other abnormalities of the bowel lining, may be identified during the procedure. In some cases, small growths known as polyps may also be found. While most polyps are harmless, some can develop into bowel cancer over time. They are usually removed during the procedure, and biopsies may be taken for further examination through laboratory testing.
Bowel Preparation and Recovery
A clear bowel is essential for a thorough and accurate examination, and you will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare before your procedure. If the bowel is not sufficiently clear, areas of the bowel lining may be difficult to see and the colonoscopy may need to be repeated.
After your colonoscopy, you will need someone to collect you from the hospital, as you cannot drive following sedation. It is normal to experience some bloating, mild abdominal discomfort or temporary changes in bowel habits for a short time afterwards. Most patients feel well enough to return to their usual activities the following day.
Your follow-up appointment will usually take place around two weeks after your procedure, allowing time for any biopsy or histopathology results to become available, where applicable. Mr Stein will discuss the findings with you and explain any recommendations for further treatment or follow-up.