Glossary of terms
COLON: The large intestine, extending from the caecum to the rectum. May sometimes become inflamed (colitis).

DIVERTICULAR DISEASE: Small bulges or pockets in the large bowel. May sometimes become inflamed (diverticulitis)

POLYP: A small growth from the lining of the stomach or bowel which can sometimes be a risk for cancer.

SPHINCTER: A ring-like muscle that constricts a passage and controls flow of material into a natural opening, similar to a gate. Eg. the anal sphincter.

ULCER: Open sore on surface of stomach or bowel.

Pre operative instructions
Colonoscopy is a visual examination of the lining of your colon (large intestine). A long flexible tube (colonoscope) is passed through the rectum and around the colon. Through this telescope the doctor will be able to look for any abnormalities that may be present. If necessary, small tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken during the examination for laboratory testing. Polyps (abnormal growths of tissue) can also be removed, using an electric snare wire.

Instruction for bowel preparation before Colonoscopy

Preparation
To allow a clear view, the colon must be completely free of waste material. A set of instructions for bowel preparation is below. If the bowel is not clear, your procedure may be cancelled to a later date.

On the day BEFORE your appointment
a) Stay on a light diet, preferably drink clear liquids. Clear liquids may include water, beer, wine, strained fruit juices (no citrus), tea, coffee & carbonated beverages. Refrain from taking any vegetables & fruit with seeds, like grapes, kiwi, strawberries and tomatoes.

b) Do not eat solid food or milk.

c) Klean prep (x4 sachets): The contents of each sachet are mixed with 1 litre of water to make a drink, stir until the powder is completely dissolved and the solution is clear. This is used to cleanse the bowel, which needs to be empty prior to examination.

12.00      Do not eat anything from now on. Just drink clear liquids.
14.00      Mix first sachet of "Klean Prep" and drink it.
15.00      Mix second sachet of "Klean Prep" and drink it.
16.00      Take a break and rest.
17.00      Mix third sachet of "Klean Prep" and drink it.
18.00      Mix fourth sachet of "Klean Prep" and drink it, then fast.

On the day of your appointment
In the morning you can only take a cup of coffee or tea without milk.
(If procedure is in the afternoon or late afternoon)

Things to arrange before coming to the Day Surgery
Arrange for a responsible adult to collect you from the day surgery and stay overnight with you.
Nil by mouth for at least six hours before the procedure.
Wear loose fitting clothes such as a tracksuit.
Have a shower or bath prior to admission.
Remove any excess nail varnish and excess make up.
Bring any medication you take with you to the day surgery.

After your surgery
In recovery, you may experience some abdominal cramping or wind pain. Please inform our nursing staff. A hot pack can be applied to your abdomen to relieve discomfort. Lying on your side alternatively swapping will help alleviate discomfort. Toilet privileges will be allowed when you are able to get up.

Following any surgery, you will often feel a little unwell and tired. Rest is the best medicine for this. Most people resume work and normal duties within a day or two following surgery. Should you require a medical certificate, remember to ask on admission.

On discharge from the Day Surgery, more information will be given to you.

Common side effects of the examination include:
- Sore rectum
- Passing flatus or wind from the rectum
- Mild abdominal bloating
- Passing small amounts of blood, mucous or stools
- Immediately telephone your doctor if any of the following occur:
- Severe abdominal cramping, pain and bloating
- Fever, chills
- Nausea, vomiting
- Passage of bright red blood, blood clots, large amounts of dark or black stools (bowel motions)
- Sudden constant diarrhoea.
- A normal diet may be commenced after hospital discharge.
- Should you be on any IRON medications, cease these 5 days prior to your procedure.

REMEMBER, IF VISIBILITY IS POOR DUE TO INADEQUATE BOWEL PREPARATION, THEN THE PROCEDURE MAY NEED TO BE REPEATED.