Colonoscopy

During the actual procedure, the patient is asked to lie on his or her left side. A sedative will be administered before the procedure commences. During the procedure, the patient’s heart rate, blood oxygen levels and blood pressure are closely monitored. Upon awaking after the procedure, patients will not remember any part of the procedure.

After the procedure, the patient is kept in a recovery room and monitored until he or she regains full consciousness. As it may take a while for the lingering effects of the sedatives to wear off, patients are not allowed to drive and must arrange for transportation back home.

Abdominal bloating for 24 to 48 hours after a colonoscopy is normal. This is due to residual air left in the colon from the procedure during which air insufflation may be needed to help with visualisation of the mucosa. Less bowel movements over the next few days are also expected as stools were emptied during the procedure preparation.

A colonoscopy is a very safe procedure with minimal risk or complication if performed by a skilled and accredited doctor. Rare complications may include perforation or bleeding, but these do not happen most of the time.

Led by Dr Lee Ser Yee and Dr Tan Wah Siew, Surgical Associates specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the liver, pancreas, colon, and rectum. Call 6454 0054 for enquiries.