OUR SERVICES
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is the gold-standard investigation for diagnosis of colorectal cancer and pre-malignant polyps, assessment of bowel symptoms, and surveillance of known bowel conditions.
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure used to examine the full length of the large bowel (colon) and the last section of the small bowel (terminal ileum). A thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope - equipped with a high definition camera - is gently passed through the rectum and guided along the entire colon. This allows your gastroenterologist to detect and, in some cases, immediately treat abnormalities including polyps, inflammation, bleeding, and early colorectal cancer.
Colonoscopy is used for colorectal cancer screening, investigation of rectal bleeding, altered bowel habits, unexplained anaemia, abdominal pain, or surveillance of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), and previous polyps.
Procedure time
20 - 30 minutes
Sedation
Anaesthesia
Hospital
Greenslopes Private Hospital
Recovery
Same day
Some rest
About the Procedure
1. Prepare
Follow your bowel preparation instructions to ensure the best possible result.
2. Arrive
Arrive at Greenslopes Private Hospital at your scheduled time for registration.
3. Procedure
You’ll receive sedation. The procedure takes around 20-30 minutes.
4. Recovery
Rest in our day recovery unit with monitoring until you feel well enough to go home with family or a friend.
5. Results
Your doctor will discuss your results with you and recommend next steps if needed.
PREPARING FOR YOUR COLONOSCOPY
We’ll provide you with detailed written instructions, including:
Low-fibre diet for 3 days prior
Clear fluids only after lunch on the day before
Bowel preparation as advised, ensuring a clean bowel
Follow all timing and safety instructions
Bring a list of medications and your consent forms
Please contact our team if you have any questions or difficulties with your preparation.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE PROCEDURE?
You will be given sedation to help you relax comfortably.
The colonoscope is gently advanced around the colon.
Polyps can usually be removed during the procedure.
Biopsies may be taken if required.
Carbon dioxide is used to inflate the bowel for a clear view.
Your gastroenterologist will discuss the procedure with you.
RISKS & SAFETY
Colonoscopy is a safe procedure when performed by experienced specialists.
Risks are uncommon but can include bleeding, perforation (rare), and reactions to sedation.
Our team will discuss your medical history and any concerns.
We follow strict safety and infection control standards. Your gastroenterologist will discuss your individual risk factors.
Your gastroenterologist will discuss your individual risk factors.