Medical Information
It is the reference examination for diagnosing diseases of the colon. It also allows tissue samples (biopsies) to be taken for microscopic analysis and offers treatment options such as polyp removal.
Based on current medical knowledge, and unless there is a contraindication, colonoscopy cannot be replaced by another test. When it is necessary, not performing it may have harmful consequences for your health by delaying or missing a potentially serious diagnosis (polyp, cancer).
In some cases, the examination may be incomplete, and additional tests may be required to visualize the entire colon. Even when complete, small lesions may sometimes be missed, especially if bowel preparation is not optimal. Removal of polyps does not prevent recurrence, so follow-up colonoscopies may be necessary.
Polyps often have a mushroom-like shape. Some may develop into cancer.
When size and attachment to the intestinal wall allow it, polyps can be removed during colonoscopy. This is usually done using an electric scalpel, which cuts and retrieves them for laboratory analysis.
In some cases, polyps are flat and spread out like a carpet. They can then be removed after being lifted by injecting sterile fluid underneath their base.
If there are too many polyps, an additional colonoscopy may be required. Some polyps cannot be treated endoscopically and require surgical removal.
The colon must be completely clean to allow an accurate examination and possible treatment.
You must carefully prepare your bowel before the procedure by strictly following the instructions provided. No solid food should be eaten within 6 hours before the examination, and no liquids within 3 hours before. This delay may be extended if your gastroenterologist considers it necessary.
Even with proper preparation, it may sometimes be insufficient, making it impossible to complete the procedure. In such cases, it will need to be rescheduled or completed with additional tests.
Medications may be affected by the preparation, including oral contraceptives.
Be sure to inform your doctor about your medical history and any medications you regularly take.
Colonoscopy requires general anesthesia. The anesthesiologist will answer any questions during the pre-procedure consultation held a few days before.
A flexible endoscope is inserted through the anus. During the procedure, air or CO₂ is introduced to expand the colon walls. You may experience bloating or the need to pass gas afterward.
After each patient, the endoscope is disinfected according to strict regulations, and accessories are either single-use (e.g., biopsy forceps, needles) or sterilized. These procedures are standard to prevent infection transmission.
You may need to remain in hospital for observation or in case of complications.
All medical procedures and examinations, even when performed under conditions of competence and safety consistent with established scientific knowledge and current regulations, carry a risk of complications. Proper bowel preparation is essential; it ensures a higher-quality examination and reduces risks. Bowel cleansing has its own drawbacks and risks (pain, discomfort); in elderly patients or those in fragile health, the presence of a companion is recommended during the preparation.
Colonoscopy is a commonly performed examination, and complications are rare. The main ones are as follows:
- Perforation of the colon wall. This complication may occur during polyp removal, but also during a simple diagnostic colonoscopy. Treatment of these perforations often requires surgery, with the risks associated with such an intervention. However, endoscopic treatment using clips (endoscopic staples) is possible for certain perforations.
- Bleeding. This may complicate polyp removal during or immediately after the procedure, but especially within 5 to 10 days afterward. It is more likely in patients taking blood-thinning medications. It may require blood transfusions.
- Rare cases of splenic hematoma have been described. This complication may require surgical removal of the spleen.
- After the examination, the appearance or abnormal persistence of abdominal pain, bright red blood or black stools, fever, or chills must be reported to your gastroenterologist, your general practitioner, or the facility where the colonoscopy was performed. The instructions given by the anesthesiologist must be followed.
If it is impossible to contact them, it is very important to seek medical attention as quickly as possible.
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In order to ensure that you are clearly informed about the course of this medical procedure, we ask you to carefully read these information documents. The doctor is available to provide any additional explanations you may wish.
