A colonoscopy is a binocular examination of the rectum and colon. Through a flexible fiber tube with a camera at the tip, the doctor/scopy nurse can view the intestinal lining, take tissue samples and remove any polyps.
There is a minimal (1%) risk of perforating the bowel during the examination. There is also a small risk of bleeding if samples are taken from the bowel.
Important information before surgery
If you are pregnant or have a pacemaker, please inform us when you arrive for the examination. This will affect the choice of equipment.
The colon must be completely cleaned out for the examination to be performed. Therefore, it is important that you follow the instructions for cleansing the colon as described in the patient information.
You can read more about colonoscopy here.