Are Your Symptoms Affecting Your Quality Of Life?
You may need a colonoscopy. Consult our colonoscopy specialist today for a detailed consultation & personalised treatment plan.
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inner lining of the large intestine, which includes the colon and rectum. This test helps the colorectal surgeon to detect changes or abnormalities such as inflamed tissue, polyps, or cancerous growths.
A colonoscopy is typically recommended every ten years for those over the age of 50 or earlier for those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors. This procedure is important for the early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer.
A colonoscopy offers several benefits. These include:
Colonoscopy is the most effective method for early detection, allowing for the identification of cancerous and precancerous lesions. Colonoscopies can discover asymptomatic early-stage colorectal cancer, improving treatment and survival.
Polyps are small growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Most polyps are harmless, but some can become cancerous. Polyps can be identified and removed immediately during a colonoscopy, reducing their risk of cancer.
A colonoscopy may also help to diagnose gastrointestinal diseases. It can detect Crohn’s illness, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, and diverticulitis. These conditions may require further tests such as biopsies or imaging tests for a more definitive diagnosis.
A colonoscopy can help evaluate various symptoms, including chronic abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, persistent diarrhoea or constipation, and unexplained weight loss. By visually inspecting the colon and rectum, your colorectal surgeon can identify potential causes such as polyps, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
A colonoscopy examines the entire colon and rectum. Unlike other screening methods, such as sigmoidoscopy, which only examines the lower part of the colon, a colonoscopy allows for a complete evaluation. This approach ensures that it detects issues throughout the colon.
Proper preparation involves several steps that help clear the colon. Key preparation steps are:
A colonoscopy involves several key steps, which include:
You may need a colonoscopy. Consult our colonoscopy specialist today for a detailed consultation & personalised treatment plan.
Proper care and recovery after a colonoscopy are important to ensure a smooth and comfortable recuperation.
After the colonoscopy, patients will be moved to a recovery area, where they will be monitored as the sedation wears off. This period typically lasts about 30 minutes to an hour. Patients may feel groggy or drowsy due to the sedatives, and it is normal to experience mild cramping or bloating caused by the air introduced into the colon during the procedure.
Once fully awake, patients can gradually resume their regular diet unless otherwise advised by the colorectal surgeon. Starting with light meals and avoiding heavy, greasy, or spicy foods may help prevent stomach discomfort. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is also recommended.
Patients should avoid driving, operating machinery, or making decisions for at least 24 hours after the procedure due to the lingering effects of sedation. Resting at home is encouraged, and most patients can return to normal activities the following day.
Any mild cramping or bloating usually resolves within a few hours. Over-the-counter pain relievers are generally sufficient if discomfort persists, but patients should avoid aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) unless advised otherwise by their colorectal surgeon.
Complications are rare, but some symptoms may require medical treatment. Severe abdominal discomfort, fever, chills, extensive rectal bleeding, or dizziness should be reported immediately to your doctor.
Before leaving the medical facility, patients will receive specific follow-up instructions. This may include when to resume medications, dietary recommendations, and any required follow-up appointments.
The overall recovery timeline after a colonoscopy is usually short and straightforward. Most patients feel fully recovered within a day.
The risks can range from common, minor issues to serious complications.
Colonoscopy is generally considered safe, but it carries some common risks.
For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners. Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.
*Extended Panel
MbChB (Sheffield)
M.Med (Surgery)
FRCSEd (General Surgery)
蘇萊曼·尤索夫博士
Dr. Sulaiman Yusof is a distinguished Senior Consultant in colorectal and general surgery, boasting over 15 years of expertise. His passion lies in minimally invasive techniques, particularly robotic surgery, where he has achieved remarkable success using the Da Vinci Xi system. Dr. Sulaiman is dedicated to delivering high-quality, personalized, and empathetic care, always striving for the best outcomes for his patients.
Dr. Sulaiman’s journey began at the University of Sheffield, where he graduated in 2002. He honed his skills during his house officer and basic surgical training in the UK before returning to Singapore. There, he completed his Advanced Surgical Training at Changi General Hospital and earned the Joint Speciality Fellowship in General Surgery in 2013.
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Farrer Park Medical Centre #14-12
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Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the day of the procedure. You will change into a hospital gown for the colonoscopy, but comfortable clothing is recommended after the procedure.
If you have difficulty completing the bowel preparation or cannot finish the laxative solution, inform your colorectal surgeon. Inadequate bowel preparation can affect the quality of the examination and may necessitate rescheduling the procedure.
Colonoscopy is highly effective in detecting and preventing colorectal cancer. By identifying and removing precancerous polyps, the procedure greatly reduces the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Regular screenings are important for early detection and prevention.
No, due to the sedatives or anaesthesia used during the procedure, you have to arrange for someone to drive you home. The effects of the sedatives can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery safely.
Patients with diabetes should discuss their condition with their colorectal surgeon before the procedure. Special instructions regarding medications, diet, and blood sugar monitoring may be provided to ensure a safe and effective preparation and procedure.