Colorectal-SurgeonSurgeons provide an integrated and wholistic approach to

the diagnosis and treatment of all colorectal conditions

Website : http://colorectal-surgeon.com.au/

Colorectal

Colorectal cancer (bowel cancer) is a very common cancer in Australia. It affects about 1 in 20 persons in Australia.

 Colorectal cancer becomes more common with age. Most patients with colorectal cancer develop the condition between 55 and 75 years of age. Men and women are equally affected although cancers of the rectum occur more frequently in men.

Colonoscopy• Colonoscopy is the best test for detection of

cancer there is a small risk of missing a small cancer. The risks and benefits of colonoscopy should be discussed in detail with your doctor prior to proceeding with the test.

• The specific details of your colonoscopy bowel preparation will be discussed and given to you at the time of your consultation

What is Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is an examination to inspect the inner lining of the large bowel (rectum and colon) using a flexible tube with a camera at its tip. It is inserted via the anus and gently guided to the start of the large bowel (caecum).During colonoscopy, carbon dioxide gas is used to inflate the bowel to allow a safe passage of the colonoscope through the bowel.

If an abnormality is encountered a tissue biopsy can be taken through the colonoscopy and sent for histological examination. If polyps are found, these small growths of the bowel lining can be removed with either cautery (hot biopsy) or a wire loop device (snare).

This allows tissue to be retrieved and sent for histological examination.

Early detection and removal of polyps protects from developing colorectal cancer.

Preparing for Colonoscopy 

For the treatment of Colonoscopy, preparation is required prior the test to empty the bowel of its content. Failure to do this may result in an incomplete or inadequate examination and the need to repeat the procedure. The preparation involves drinking a “bowel prep” solution which has a laxative effect. This should be done at home as you will need to be close to the toilet for the duration of the preparation. During the preparation you are not allowed to eat any solid food. You are allowed clear fluids (apple juice, water, clear soup, etc) until 6 hours prior to the procedure. Only when your bowel motion is the consistency of clear liquid, is your preparation adequate.

Procedure.

Colonoscopy is a safe procedure with a low risk of complications. The most significant risk of this is a perforation of the bowel. The risk of this is approximately 1 in 1000.

If a biopsy or polypectomy is performed the risk of bleeding from this is about 3 in 1000. 

Thank you