Colonoscopy | healthdirect

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}; function onError(error) {}</script> </div> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> initialiseSocialShare('socialshare-node-desktop-mode', "https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/colonoscopy"); </script> </span> </div> <div id="readspeaker_button1" class="rs_skip rsbtn rs_preserve"> <a rel="nofollow" class="rsbtn_play" accesskey="L" title="Listen to this page using ReadSpeaker" href="//app-oc.readspeaker.com/cgi-bin/rsent?customerid=8207&lang=en_au&readid=mainContentArticleText&url=https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/colonoscopy"> <span class="rsbtn_left rsimg rspart"><span class="rsbtn_text"><span>Listen</span></span></span> <span class="rsbtn_right rsimg rsplay rspart"></span> </a> </div> </header> <div class="main_content-body-text"><div class="cont_layout-standout"> <h2>Key facts</h2> <ul> <li>A colonoscopy is used to diagnose medical conditions such as bowel cancer.</li> <li>It uses a camera to allow your doctor to view the inside of your large bowel (colon).</li> <li>Bowel preparation is necessary to clean out your bowel so it can be examined.</li> <li>Sedation or a light anaesthetic are used to during colonoscopy to minimise pain and discomfort during the procedure.</li> <li>Complications such as a bleeding during or after a colonoscopy are rare.</li> </ul> </div> <nav class="cont_nav-index-table__double-col"> <h2>On this page</h2> <ul> <li><a href="#what-is">What is a colonoscopy?</a></li> <li><a href="#when">When is a colonoscopy recommended?</a></li> <li><a href="#where">Where can I get a colonoscopy?</a></li> <li><a href="#prepare">How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?</a></li> <li><a href="#during">What happens during a colonoscopy?</a></li> <li><a href="#feel-like">What does a colonoscopy feel like?</a></li> <li><a href="#side-effects">What side effects or complications can occur after a colonoscopy?</a></li> <li><a href="#alternatives">Are there alternatives to a colonoscopy?</a></li> <li><a href="#resources">Resources and support</a></li> <li><a href="#searchGeneralResults">Related information on Australian websites</a></li> </ul> </nav> <h2 id="what-is">What is a colonoscopy?</h2> <p>A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that uses a flexible tube known as a colonoscope. The tube is gently inserted into your anus and passed through the rectum into the large bowel (colon).</p> <p>The tube has a tiny camera and light at the end. The tube is long, thin and flexible. This means it can bend and move around the curves of your bowel to give a clear view of its entire length, which is displayed on a screen. This allows your doctor to examine your large bowel, and even take samples of tissue (biopsies) if necessary with special instruments attached to the colonoscope.</p> <h2 id="when">When is a colonoscopy recommended?</h2> <p>Your doctor or gastroenterologist may recommend a colonoscopy:</p> <ul> <li>to find the cause of gut-related problems such as <a href="/abdominal-pain">abdominal pain</a> or <a href="/anal-injury">bleeding from the anus</a></li> <li>if you have a high risk of bowel problems due to <a href="/management-of-chronic-conditions">chronic</a> bowel disease or a family history of bowel disease, such as <a href="/bowel-cancer">bowel cancer</a></li> <li>if your gastroenterologist suspects you might have <a href="/polyps">polyps</a> or inflamed tissues in your bowel</li> <li>to find the cause of unexplained weight loss or <a href="/stool-changes">stool (poo) changes</a></li> <li>to follow up any suspicious findings of a previous colonoscopy</li> <li>if you have had a positive <a target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab" href="https://www.cancervic.org.au/cancer-information/screening/bowel-screening/results">bowel cancer screening test (poo test)</a></li> </ul> <p>Ask your doctor about your <a target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab" href="https://lifestylerisk.canceraustralia.gov.au/#!/">risk of developing bowel cancer</a>.</p> <h2 id="where">Where can I get a colonoscopy?</h2> <p>You can have a colonoscopy at a <a href="/understanding-the-public-and-private-hospital-systems">public or private hospital or clinic</a>.</p> <p>If you are treated as a public patient in a public hospital, you won't usually have any out-of-pocket costs.</p> <p>If you choose a private hospital or choose to be treated as a private patient in a public hospital you might have to pay, depending on your level of private health insurance. Ask your insurer out about any out-of-pocket costs, waiting periods, and what facilities are available. </p> <a href="/australian-health-services" class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout"> <i class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-left dor-icon_hospital"></i> <p class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-right"><strong>FIND A HEALTH SERVICE</strong> — The <strong class="cont_underline">Service Finder</strong> can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.</p> </a> <h2 id="prepare">How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?</h2> <p>Before a colonoscopy you need to prepare your bowel to make sure the procedure goes smoothly. Preparation can be different for each person and depending on your hospital's protocol.</p> <p>Go over the instructions for your colonoscopy at least two weeks ahead of time. Make sure you know what to do with your diet and medicines, especially if you have:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/diabetes">diabetes</a></li> <li><a href="/chronic-kidney-disease">kidney disease</a></li> <li><a href="/high-blood-pressure-hypertension">high blood pressure</a></li> <li><a href="/heart-and-cardiovascular-conditions">heart or blood vessel conditions</a></li> <li>use <a href="/blood-thinners">blood thinners</a></li> <li>other serious medical conditions</li> </ul> <p>You will receive instructions from your doctor or hospital before the procedure. It's important to follow these instructions so you don't have to redo the test. Here's what you need to know about the preparation process.</p> <a href="/question-builder" class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout"> <i class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-left dor-icon_question"></i> <p class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-right"><strong>ASK YOUR DOCTOR</strong> — Preparing for an appointment? Use the <strong class="cont_underline">Question Builder</strong> for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.</p> </a> <h3>Dietary changes</h3> <p>A few days before the procedure, you may need to avoid high-fibre foods such as:</p> <ul> <li>fruits and vegetables</li> <li>brown rice</li> <li>wholegrain pasta</li> <li>cereal</li> <li>nuts and seeds</li> </ul> <p>Instead, you can eat low-fibre foods such as:</p> <ul> <li>white rice and white bread</li> <li>chicken and fish</li> <li>yogurt and cheese</li> <li>potatoes and pumpkin</li> </ul> <p>Your doctor may advise you to drink only clear fluids for 12 to 24 hours before the test. Examples of clear fluids are:</p> <ul> <li>water</li> <li>clear fruit juices without pulp — check with your clinic what is acceptable</li> <li>black tea or coffee (without milk)</li> <li>clear soup</li> </ul> <p>It's important to drink plenty of fluids before your colonoscopy to avoid dehydration.</p> <h3>Bowel preparation</h3> <p>You may be prescribed medicine to take 12 to 18 hours before the procedure that. It causes watery <a href="/diarrhoea">diarrhoea</a> that <a href="/laxatives">will help empty your bowel</a>.</p> <p>Sometimes, you might need to use an <a href="/laxatives">enema</a>. This means inserting liquid into your rectum to wash out the lower bowel. The enema solution and any poo will be passed into the toilet.</p> <p>You might have mild side effects from the bowel preparation such as:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/nausea">nausea</a></li> <li><a href="/bloating">bloating</a></li> </ul> <p>Take a short break if you experience any mild side effects. More serious side effects include:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/dizziness">dizziness</a></li> <li><a href="/fever">fever</a></li> <li><a href="/headaches">severe headache</a></li> </ul> <p>These side effects might mean you have <a href="/dehydration">dehydration</a> or an <a href="/allergies-and-hypersensitivities">allergic reaction</a> to the bowel preparation. Contact your doctor if you have any serious side effects or if you cannot finish the bowel preparation.</p> <h3>Your regular medicines</h3> <p>Ask your doctor about whether to continue taking your regular medicines in the days before and after your procedure, especially if you take blood-thinning medicines.</p> <p>This includes:</p> <ul> <li>prescribed medicines</li> <li><a href="/over-the-counter-medicines">over-the-counter medicines</a></li> <li>herbs or <a href="/vitamins-and-minerals">supplements</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="during">What happens during a colonoscopy?</h2> <p>The colonoscopy usually takes less than 30 minutes. You will typically receive a <a href="/general-anaesthetic">general anaesthetic</a> or sedation to minimise pain or discomfort. This means you won't usually remember the procedure.</p> <h3>During the procedure</h3> <p>You will lie on your left side and receive sedation before the procedure starts. The doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube into your bowel. The colonoscope has a light and camera to help the doctor see inside your bowel.</p> <p>Air is pumped into your bowel to make it easier to see the bowel walls. Your doctor might remove any <a href="/polyps">polyps</a> (small tissue growths) they find, and take biopsies (<a href="/biopsy">small samples of tissue</a><u>)</u> to check for disease.</p> <p>The procedure usually takes place as day surgery, so you won't need to stay overnight. You will stay in a recovery area until your sedation wears off.</p> <h3>After the procedure</h3> <p>After your colonoscopy your doctor will give you a short update. You may not get the full results until a later follow-up appointment.</p> <p>You may feel sleepy after the procedure due to the sedation or anaesthetic. You will need somebody to help you get home. It is also a good idea to have someone stay with you the night after your procedure. Straight after sedation, you should not:</p> <ul> <li>drive a car</li> <li>travel alone on public transport</li> <li>use machinery</li> <li>sign legal documents</li> <li>drink alcohol</li> </ul> <p>You should feel better the next day. Your doctor or nurse will give you instructions on how to look after yourself at home including:</p> <ul> <li>when to start taking your regular medicines again</li> <li>what to eat and drink</li> <li>what to do if you have any problems</li> </ul> <h2 id="feel-like">What does a colonoscopy feel like?</h2> <p>A colonoscopy is a quick and generally painless procedure. Most people prefer to be sedated during a colonoscopy. This means you usually wake up in the recovery room without remembering the procedure.</p> <p>Since you don't have pain nerves inside your bowel, you won't feel it if any polyps or tissue are removed. During the procedure, the doctor will inflate your bowel with air to help them get a good view of the bowel walls. This can cause bloating that usually resolves within 24 hours.</p> <h2 id="side-effects">What side effects or complications can occur after a colonoscopy?</h2> <p>After a colonoscopy you might feel:</p> <ul> <li>tired from the sedation</li> <li>bloating because of trapped air in your bowel</li> <li>mild discomfort</li> </ul> <p>If polyps were removed, you may have some mild bleeding from your rectum or in your bowel motions (poo). This can start straight away or within two weeks.</p> <p>Complications during or after a colonoscopy are rare and include:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/rectal-bleeding">bleeding </a></li> <li>perforation (poking a hole in your bowel)</li> <li>infection</li> <li><a href="/dehydration">dehydration</a> or an <a href="/allergies-and-hypersensitivities">allergic reaction</a> to the bowel preparation</li> <li>complications from medicines used for sedation</li> </ul> <p>Call your doctor immediately if you have:</p> <ul> <li>a <a href="/fever">fever</a></li> <li>more than a tablespoon of <a href="/rectal-bleeding">rectal bleeding</a></li> <li>severe abdominal pain or bloating</li> <li>persistent <a href="/nausea">nausea</a> or <a href="/vomiting">vomiting</a></li> <li>extreme thirst</li> <li>dizziness</li> <li><a href="/headaches">headaches</a></li> </ul> <p>It's also possible to have a polyp or cancerous growth in your bowel that isn't detected with colonoscopy. Despite this small risk, colonoscopy is still the best method available to screen for bowel cancer.</p> <a href="/symptom-checker" class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout"> <i class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-left dor-icon_user-md"></i> <p class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-right"><strong>CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS</strong> — Use the <strong class="cont_underline">Symptom Checker</strong> and find out if you need to seek medical help.</p> </a> <h2 id="alternatives">Are there alternatives to a colonoscopy?</h2> <p>A colonoscopy is the best way to check for bowel cancer. There are other <a href="/diagnostic-tests">tests</a> such as a:</p> <ul> <li>Virtual colonoscopy — uses <a href="/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri">MRI</a> or <a href="/ct-scan">CT scan</a><u>s</u> to create images of your bowel. It is not as accurate because it can't take tissue samples or see smaller issues. You will still need a colonoscopy if something abnormal is found.</li> <li><a href="/surgery/flexible-sigmoidoscopy">Flexible sigmoidoscopy</a> — looks at the rectum and lower part of the bowel only. It's less thorough than a colonoscopy.</li> <li><a href="/bowel-cancer-screening">Bowel screening test</a> — is recommended every two years if you are at average or slightly above average risk of bowel cancer. This test checks your poo for tiny traces of blood that you can't see. Blood in your poo can be a sign of polyps or bowel cancer.</li> </ul> <h2 id="resources">Resources and support</h2> <p>For more information on how to receive a bowel screening kit, visit the <a target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab" href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-bowel-cancer-screening-program">National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.</a></p> <p>You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.</p> <h3>Do you prefer to read in languages other than English?</h3> <p>The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program offers <a target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab" href="https://www.health.gov.au/resources/translated?search_api_fulltext_listing=bowel%20cancer&f%5B0%5D=h_translations_our_work%3A7419">translated information</a> in several languages.</p> <h3>Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?</h3> <p>The Department of Health and Aged Care provides <a target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab" href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-bowel-cancer-screening-program/indigenous/families">bowel screening information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander families and communities</a></p> <p>SA Health has culturally appropriate information on <a target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab" href="https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/healthy+living/recommended+health+checks/bowel+screening/culturally+appropriate+bowel+screening+resources">bowel screening for Aboriginal women and Aboriginal men</a>.</p> <p>Cancer Australia also has a range of <a target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab" href="https://www.cancer.org.au/bowelscreening/first-nations-communities">bowel screening resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and health professionals</a>.</p></div> <footer class="main_content-article-text-footer"> <div> <h4>Source<span>s</span>:</h4> <span> <a href="https://www.gesa.org.au" target="_blank" title="Gastroenterological Society of Australia">Gastroenterological Society of Australia</a> <em>(Colonoscopy Fact sheet)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/" target="_blank" title="Department of Health and Aged Care">Department of Health and Aged Care</a> <em>(National Bowel Cancer Screening Program - Information booklet)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/" target="_blank" title="Department of Health and Aged Care">Department of Health and Aged Care</a> <em>(National Bowel Cancer Screening Program - Colonoscopy brochure)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://www.cancer.org.au" target="_blank" title="Cancer Council Australia">Cancer Council Australia</a> <em>(Colonoscopy)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://www.bowelcanceraustralia.org" target="_blank" title="Bowel Cancer Australia">Bowel Cancer Australia</a> <em>(A Quality Colonoscopy)<span></span></em> </span> </div> </footer> <p>Learn more here about the <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/about-our-content">development and quality assurance of healthdirect content</a>.</p> <p>Last reviewed: June 2024</p> <div class="main_content-back-to-top"><a href="#backToTop"><i class="dor-icon_caret-up"></i><br><span class="tablet-up__inline">Back To </span>Top</a></a></div> </main>  <section class="main_content-links print-hidden"> <section class="related-pages-section"> <h2>Related pages</h2> <ul> <li> <a href="/surgery/colonoscopy-child" title="Colonoscopy (child)">Colonoscopy (child)</a> </li> </ul> </section> <section class="related-concept-section"> <h2>Search our site for</h2> <ul> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Digestive System Diagnosis" title="Search results for:Digestive System Diagnosis">Digestive System Diagnosis</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Bowel Cancer" title="Search results for:Bowel Cancer">Bowel Cancer</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Rectal Diseases" title="Search results for:Rectal Diseases">Rectal Diseases</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Rectal Bleeding" title="Search results for:Rectal Bleeding">Rectal Bleeding</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Colon" title="Search results for:Colon">Colon</a> </li> </ul> </section> </section>  <section class="main_content-search"> <header> <h2>Need more information?</h2> <p>These trusted information partners have more on this topic.</p> </header> <div class="main_content-general-text"> <div> <div class="main_content-search-results-partners"> <nav class="dor-tabs__2 veyron-search-tabs" role="tablist"> <label class="dor-tabs_item" role="tab" aria-controls="searchGeneralResults" aria-selected="true"> <input type="radio" checked name="tab"> <div class="dor-tabs_item-btn veyron-search-tab-btn">General search results</div> </label> <label class="dor-tabs_item" role="tab" aria-controls="searchProfessionalResults" aria-selected="false"> <input type="radio" name="tab"> <div class="dor-tabs_item-btn veyron-search-tab-btn">Results for medical professionals</div> </label> </nav> <section id="searchGeneralResults" data-total-records="54"> <p>Top results</p> <a href="https://healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Colonoscopy" data-partner-url="partners/wa-health" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|6fbd33fd-5d6c-42c9-9816-958058ebec72"> <h3>Colonoscopy</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine or inspect the bowel (large intestine or colon) and allows for a variety of operations to be carried out through a colonoscope.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on WA Health website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="WA Health" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/WA_health_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://mydr.com.au/tests-investigations/colonoscopy-examination-of-the-colon/" data-partner-url="partners/mydr" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|290d36b1-cdb9-48a9-942b-590f995d8094"> <h3>Colonoscopy: examination of the colon - myDr.com.au</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>A colonoscopy is an examination of the colon (large bowel), using a colonoscope a long, thin, flexible tube containing a camera and a light.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on MyDoctor website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="MyDoctor" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/mydoctor-new_logo-1f39cc.png"> </a> <a href="https://cancer.org.au/colonoscopy" data-partner-url="partners/cancer-council-australia" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|1342f409-8306-465c-80dd-10c3401c550e"> <h3>What is a colonoscopy? | Cancer Council</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>A colonoscopy is a diagnostic test to look inside your large bowel. Find out what happens and the preparation you will have to complete for this test</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Cancer Council Australia website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Cancer Council Australia" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/cancer-council_logo_blue&yellow_rgb-5564ab.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/colonoscopy-clinical-care-standard/colonoscopy-what-you-need-know" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|8d980313-7b11-4d72-9724-63d9d18cf13a"> <h3>Colonoscopy: what you need to know | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>What is a colonoscopy?</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/publications-and-resources/resource-library/colonoscopy-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-peoples-fact-sheet" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|2799fdf2-f827-413a-b9bb-3448d034f294"> <h3>Colonoscopy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – Fact sheet | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>The Commission has developed culturally appropriate resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, to help educate them about having a colonoscopy. The resources are based on the national Colonoscopy Clinical Care Standard. Return to Colonoscopy resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/publications-and-resources/resource-library/colonoscopy-clinical-care-standard-consumer-fact-sheet" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|71f0a8e9-78bc-4718-9863-0ebf63864a7f"> <h3>Colonoscopy Clinical Care Standard – Consumer fact sheet | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Colonoscopy Clinical Care Standard – Consumer fact sheet Downloads Colonoscopy Clinical Care Standard – Consumer fact sheet Publication year 2018 Resource type Fact sheet or brochure Topics Clinical Care Standards Health conditions, diseases and treatments</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.insideradiology.com.au/ct-colonography/" data-partner-url="partners/inside-radiology" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|2bc89604-55e0-4ff4-b81b-81cff765da28"> <h3>CT Colonography - InsideRadiology</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>InsideRadiology provides free and easily accessible, accurate, up to date and credible information about medical imaging tests and procedures.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on InsideRadiology website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="InsideRadiology" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/InsideRadiology_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.anzca.edu.au/patient-information/anaesthesia-information-for-patients-and-carers/anaesthesia-for-endoscopy" data-partner-url="partners/anzca-australian-and-new-zealand-college-of-anaesthetists" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|94eab017-a2de-4fc7-938e-0129c09ed4a7"> <h3>ANZCA | Anaesthesia for endoscopy</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Endoscopy procedures, which include gastroscopy and colonoscopy, are frequently performed as day-stay cases.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on ANZCA – Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="ANZCA – Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/anzca_brandmark_primary_deepblue_rgb-ec9817.png"> </a> <a href="https://cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/early-detection-and-screening/early-detection-of-bowel-cancer" data-partner-url="partners/cancer-council-australia" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|d629f7f7-816b-4c08-9974-980a83de692d"> <h3>Early detection of bowel cancer | Cancer Council</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>It is crucial that bowel cancer is detected early. Read our latest information on symptoms, screening and how to reduce the risk of bowel cancer</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Cancer Council Australia website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Cancer Council Australia" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/cancer-council_logo_blue&yellow_rgb-5564ab.png"> </a> <a href="https://nt.gov.au/wellbeing/cancer-services/bowel-cancer" data-partner-url="partners/nt-health" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|34e606ec-b532-43b4-8ef2-c392b7912f5f"> <h3>Bowel cancer | NT.GOV.AU</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Prevention, detection tests, symptoms and treatment for bowel cancer.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on NT Health website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="NT Health" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/nt-healh_newlogo-191907.png"> </a> <section class="main_content-search-show-more "> <button class="main_content-search-show-more-btn" title="Show more search results" rel="nofollow">Show more</button> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-show-more-loading"></i> </section> </section> <section id="searchProfessionalResults" class="hidden" data-total-records="41"> <p>Top results</p> <a href="https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/colonoscopy" data-partner-url="partners/ausmed-education" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|84ca34ce-e509-47c5-98b8-bb0df2f44bf5"> <h3>Colonoscopy Procedures and Standards | Ausmed</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure wherein the inside of the colon (large bowel) is examined for signs of bowel cancer or illness. It is performed using a flexible tube known as a colonoscope, which is inserted into the anus and guided through the colon. The colonoscope uses a camera and light to transmit a clear, magnified image of the colon lining to a monitor while it is being maneuvered.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Ausmed Education website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Ausmed Education" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ausmed-new-logo-872e67.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/colonoscopy-clinical-care-standard" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|05515081-c856-4ca9-9b38-b64cbb57faa6"> <h3>Colonoscopy Clinical Care Standard | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Review of the Standard The Commission has commenced a review of the Colonoscopy Clinical Care Standard to ensure currency with relevant guidelines and clinical practice. The revised standard is expected to be published mid 2025. </p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/colonoscopy-clinical-care-standard/clinicians-colonoscopy-clinical-care-standard" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|3e19abb5-343b-4a05-bab5-e1df9ad700d6"> <h3>For clinicians – the Colonoscopy Clinical Care Standard | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>What do clinicians need to know? The Colonoscopy Clinical Care Standard includes nine quality statements and four indicators.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://pathologytestsexplained.org.au/ptests-pro.php?q=Calprotectin" data-partner-url="partners/pathology-tests-explained" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|74f863bb-3f8f-4853-a221-46a44d4d649f"> <h3>Calprotectin | Pathology Tests Explained</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Calprotectin is a protein released by a type of white blood cell called a neutrophil. When there is inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, neutroph</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Pathology Tests Explained website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Pathology Tests Explained" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ptex-vertical-orientation-colored-600x275px-01-0ae8ba.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/acute-coronary-syndromes-clinical-care-standard" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|01dd52f6-b181-4779-9703-14a287e3e0f7"> <h3>Acute Coronary Syndromes Clinical Care Standard | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Why do we need the Acute Coronary Syndromes Clinical Care Standard? While there are well-developed guidelines for managing acute coronary syndromes, not all people receive appropriate treatment and there is variation in the type of care received across Australia.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/acute-stroke-clinical-care-standard" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|1b8ca1eb-5a41-4b32-bcd6-26489e1fc3d8"> <h3>Acute Stroke Clinical Care Standard | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Why do we need the Acute Stroke Clinical Care Standard? Stroke is a serious medical emergency, and timely treatment is critical. With the right treatment at the right time, many people are able to recover from stoke.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/sepsis-clinical-care-standard/information-clinicians-sepsis-clinical-care-standard" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|a09db361-30c6-44ca-a181-b7d02ecd1ede"> <h3>Information for clinicians - Sepsis Clinical Care Standard | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>What do clinicians need to know?</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/low-back-pain-clinical-care-standard" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|5d86ba38-786b-47d1-8955-bea5581fe0f1"> <h3>Low Back Pain Clinical Care Standard | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Overview</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/stillbirth-clinical-care-standard" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|93da86ad-b03a-4a68-a1fd-10431a4f4b2a"> <h3>Stillbirth Clinical Care Standard | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>About Stillbirth</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ACSQHC_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-clinical-care-standard/information-clinicians" data-partner-url="partners/acsqhc-australian-commission-on-safety-and-quality-in-health-care" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|c258f14c-edca-4cba-b0a2-aad873e0f574"> <h3>Information for clinicians - 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