Colonoscopy

Question 1

Define:

Answer 1

Endoscopic examination of the large bowel and distal part of the small bowel

Sedation and analgesia are given first before the flexible colonscope is inserted and guided through the colon.

Question 2

Indications:

Answer 2

Persistent diarrhoea

Monitoring or suspicion of IBD

Rectal bleeding (once it has stopped if it is acute)

Colon cancer surveillance

Iron deficiency anaemia

Biopsy of lesion seen on barium enema

Question 3

Complications:

Answer 3

Perforation

Haemorrhage after a biopsy is taken

Incomplete examination

Abdominal discomfort