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A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that visually examines the interior of the colon and rectum using a flexible, camera-equipped tube called a colonoscope. This procedure is important for detecting colon polyps, cancers, and other conditions, affecting the large intestine.
Colonoscopy is recommended as a routine screening tool for colorectal cancer starting at age 45 for people at average risk. It can also help diagnose symptoms such as unexplained changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and abdominal pain. The procedure not only aids in diagnosis but can also be therapeutic, allowing for the removal of polyps and tissue sampling.
Colonoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic tool used in various clinical scenarios. Here are the primary reasons for undergoing this procedure:
Routine screening for colorectal cancer is recommended for all people starting at age 45 or earlier for those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors.
Colonoscopy is performed to explore the cause of gastrointestinal symptoms such as persistent diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, unexplained abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits.
For patients with a history of polyps or colorectal cancer, regular colonoscopies are used to monitor the colon and rectum for recurrence or new growth.
Patients with chronic inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease often undergo colonoscopies to assess the extent of disease activity and response to treatment.
Successful colonoscopy relies on proper preparation. Here are the key steps involved:
Patients are usually required to follow a special diet in the days leading up to the procedure. This often includes consuming only clear liquids like broths, teas, and clear juices for at least 24 hours before the procedure.
Patients must take a laxative preparation to ensure the colon is clean and free of obstructions. This may come in the form of large-volume liquids or pill forms that induce diarrhoea to empty the colon.
Discuss all medications, as some may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued, especially blood thinners and diabetes medications.
Consult our dual fellowship-trained surgeon for a personalised treatment plan today.
A colonoscopy is a comprehensive procedure aimed at examining the interior of the colon and rectum. Here’s what happens during a typical colonoscopy:
Upon arrival at the clinic or hospital, you will be required to complete the necessary paperwork and change into a gown. You’ll then be taken to the procedure room.
Most colonoscopies are performed under sedation to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. You will receive sedatives intravenously, which will make you feel drowsy.
A long, flexible tube called a colonoscope will be inserted into the rectum and gently advanced through the colon. The colonoscope has a light and camera that sends images to a monitor, allowing it to examine the intestinal lining.
As the colonoscope is manoeuvred through the colon, it is used to identify abnormalities like polyps or signs of inflammation. Tools can be passed through the colonoscope to remove polyps, take biopsies, or perform other necessary interventions.
The colonoscope is slowly withdrawn while the lining of the colon is inspected for any additional findings.
It is important to follow specific aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Here’s what you can generally expect:
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Dr Thng Yongxian is a dual fellowship-trained Hepatopancreatobiliary & General Surgeon who has performed over 6000 surgical procedures.
He pursued his subspecialty training in Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery first in the Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Singapore General Hospital. Following this, he completed a clinical fellowship in Minimally Invasive Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery at Seoul National University Hospital in Bundang, South Korea.
Dr Thng set up and pioneered the Minimally invasive surgery program for his hospital in complex liver and pancreas cases. His surgeries were featured on live national television. His surgical videos have also been presented at international surgical conferences. He also pioneered the use of capsule colonoscopy for colorectal screening.
Dr Thng has served on various committees at hospital, cluster and ministry level. Dr Thng served as a member of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy Clinician workgroup for value-driven care (VDC).
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820 Thomson Road, #06-05 ,Singapore 574623
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
3 Mount Elizabeth, #08-06, Singapore 228510
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
38 Irrawaddy Road, #08-43, Singapore 329563
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
319 Joo Chiat Place, #05-01, Singapore 427989
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday, Sunday & PH: Closed
6 Napier Road, #05-10, Singapore 258499
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
820 Thomson Road, #06-05 ,Singapore 574623
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
For people at average risk of colorectal cancer and without symptoms, a colonoscopy is typically recommended every 10 years starting at age 45. The frequency may vary based on the findings of previous colonoscopies, such as the presence of polyps and personal or family medical history.
While colonoscopy is the gold standard for detecting colorectal cancers and other abnormalities, no test is perfect. Small lesions or flat polyps might be missed, especially if the bowel preparation was inadequate.
After a colonoscopy, you can usually return to your normal diet. Avoid very spicy or rough foods for a couple of days if you experience any bowel sensitivity or had biopsies taken during the procedure.
If you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, heavy or persistent bleeding from the rectum, or dizziness, you should immediately seek medical attention or go to the emergency room.