The procedure is performed using conscious sedation. The day before the procedure a special diet is followed and specialised laxatives are prescribed before the investigation is undertaken. Details and instructions will be provided to you by our rooms.
What you need to know:
- A colonoscopy should not be a painful procedure. At Christiaan Barnard Hospital the procedure is performed with specialised gas instead of air so that any discomfort and cramping is minimized.
- The sedation used during a colonoscopy is called "conscious sedation". You may receive two types of medications during the procedure. One of the medications is used to avoid for pain and the other is to make you feel sleepy and relaxed.
- NB! If you have allergies to any medications please notify us. It is also imperative that you inform us when making your appointment for your colonoscopy if you have a cardiac pacemaker or artificial valves or stents.
- Colonoscopy can take from 15 to 30 minutes. The procedure can take more or less time and varies from person to person. On average you will be in the endoscopy suite no longer than an hour and a half. Once we have determined that you are fully stable and are able to ambulate unassisted you and your companion will be free to leave. Please remember that may not drive a car for a period of twelve hours after the colonoscopy.
- An important part of the colonoscopy is the bowel preparation. To minimize disruption, this is taken the evening before the procedure. Our rooms will also provide you with a dietary sheet with advice of which foods are to be avoided the day before the procedure.
- You can continue taking any important medications that your doctor has prescribed. Simply take them with a small sip of water at least two hours before your appointment. This allows time for the tablets to dissolve completely.
- You can eat and drink normally afterwards although we recommend starting with a light meal and advancing your diet as tolerated. We would advise you not to work on the day of the procedure.
- You can have this procedure if you are on blood thinning agents. It’s important you you notify us if you are taking any blood thinners such as warfarin, clopidogrel or Xarelto.
