DR LLOYD DORRINGTON
COLONOSCOPY

What is "Colonoscopy"?

Colonoscopy is a procedure which allows me to examine the inside of your large bowel. Unlike X-rays which take “photographs” colonoscopy lets me see the surfaces inside your bowel directly and can provide more detail and accuracy than an X-ray.  In certain cases treatment is possible thereby avoiding an operation.   It allows for a variety of operations to be carried out through the colonoscope.  These operations may include taking small tissue samples (biopsy) and removal of polyps.  An alternative method of examining the large bowel is barium enema.  Colonoscopy has the advantage over the barium enema in allowing tissue samples or biopsies to be taken,  removal of polyps, and more accurate assessment of your bowel lining

How are you prepared ?

Prior to colonoscopy you will be provided with a preparation kit containing full instructions.  For two days before the procedure you will need to follow a low residue diet.  You will need to take something to clean out your bowel on the evening before and on the morning of the procedure.
You will be given a sedative through a vein in the arm before the procedure to make you sleepy and comfortable.  You will have no memory of the procedure.

Special Considerations

As x-ray screening may be used during the procedure, it is essential for female patients that there is no possibility of pregnancy.  You must advise me if you have any doubts about this.

You should advise the nursing staff if you have any allergies.
 
You should cease iron tablets and drugs to stop diarrhoea at least several days before the procedure.  It is also desirable that you are not taking Aspirin or N.S.A.I.D’s (arthritis tablets).  If you are on these medications, you must discuss the matter with your doctor or contact me directly.  You should also inform your doctor if you are taking blood thinning tablets, have heart valve disease, or have a pacemaker implanted. Please inform me if you are diabetic especially if you need insulin

What do we do?

The colonoscope is a long and highly flexible tube about the thickness of your index finger.  It is inserted through the rectum into the large intestine to allow inspection of the whole large bowel.  As cancer of the large bowel arises from pre-existing polyps (a benign wart-like growth), it is advisable that if any polyps are found they should be removed at the time of examination.  Most polyps can be burnt off (Polypectomy) by placing a wire snare around the base and applying an electric current to cut through the base or stalk of the polyp.