Ex.) This month's outpatient services schedule

Colonoscopy and Treatment Information

Colonoscopy and Treatment Information

Purpose of Colonoscopy and Endoscopic Treatment

The purpose of this exam is to observe the large intestine (cecum to rectum), detect and diagnose abnormalities and diseases, and determine an appropriate treatment plan. If a colon polyp is seen during the examination and the physician determines that outpatient endoscopic treatment is necessary, endoscopic treatment will be performed following the examination.

Colonoscopy and Endoscopic Treatment Methods

  • There are pre-examination treatments (e.g., laxatives, other medications and dietary restrictions). Pre-Test Dieting Rules and How to take Laxatives（PDF 445.8KB）
  • Intravenous infusion will be used to quickly respond to changes in vital signs such as blood pressure fluctuations during examination and treatment.
  • The center will administer injections of sedatives and analgesics (painkillers) to relieve anxiety and tension.
    (See "Sedative and Analgesic Injections" below.)
  • he endoscope is inserted through the anus until it reaches the cecum, and the intestinal tract is observed as it is withdrawn. If necessary, endoscopic treatment is performed following the examination. (Even if indicated, endoscopic treatment may not be performed on the same day if determined inappropriate due to the condition of the intestinal tract or other factors).
  • Dye is applied to the intestinal tract as needed to facilitate a more accurate diagnosis.
  • A portion of the tissue may be collected (biopsied) to diagnose benign or malignant conditions.
  • The exam is approximately 15-30 minutes but varies from person to person.
  • If endoscope insertion is problematic, a barium enema may be performed.
    After the examination, you will be asked to rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour before returning home. Please drink plenty of liquids.

Complications associated with colonoscopy and endoscopic procedures

  • Endoscopic complications include bowel perforation (a hole in the intestine; national total: 0.03%) and hypotension (low blood pressure due to vagal response).
  • The most common complications of endoscopic procedures are hemorrhage (bleeding) and bowel perforation.

    Hemorrhage:


    		The endoscopically treated site becomes an ulcer and may bleed for about a week. The probability of this occurring is about 1% (approximately 1 in 100). Post-treatment bleeding may not be as severe as blood in the stool, but the toilet bowl may become bright red with blood.
    If bleeding persists, be sure to contact us as endoscopic hemostasis treatment may be necessary.
    Bowel Perforation:

    		Although very rare, treatment may entail a laparotomy. For precautions after endoscopic treatment, please refer toPrecautions for Colonoscopy Treatment（PDF 369.3KB）.

Sedative and Analgesic (Painkiller) Injections

The center may administer sedative or analgesic (painkiller) injections to alleviate exam-related anxiety or nervousness. The disadvantages of sedatives/analgesics are that they may cause drowsiness and impaired judgment on the examination day. Elderly patients should be accompanied by a family member. The physician may reduce or cancel the use of sedatives/analgesics at their discretion.

No Driving (Cars, Motorcycles, Bicycles, etc.)

  • Do not drive a car, motorcycle, bicycle, etc., for the entire day after the examination, as impaired judgment resulting from sedatives and painkillers may lead to an accident.
  • In addition, patients who have undergone treatment may not drive a car for three days or ride a motorcycle or bicycle for seven days following treatment as anemia caused by bleeding may lead to accidents. The patient must remain at rest to prevent further hemorrhaging.

Anticoagulant Use

  • If the patient is found to be taking anticoagulants (anti-clotting medication) on the day of the examination, the endoscopic treatment may be denied.
  • If instructed in advance by a physician to discontinue a medication, please comply.

We will take all necessary precautions in conducting the examination, and in the unlikely event of an emergency, we will take all possible measures to provide emergency treatment.

For Outpatients