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COLONOSCOPY

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Colonoscopy and removal of polyps decrease the
incidence of colorectal cancer!

Contact us today at 6250 5610 or WhatsApp us here.

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What is a colonoscopy?

In colonoscopy, a long thin flexible tube with a small light and camera at the end is inserted through the anus and rectum until the caecum (beginning of the colon). It is connected to a screen that allows Dr Tan to evaluate any abnormalities seen along the way. 

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You will be given sedation just before the start of your colonoscopy. 

During the examination, any polyp that is found will be removed immediately to prevent colorectal cancer from potentially developing.

Who should go for colonoscopy?

If you have the symptoms mentioned below, you should have a colonoscopy.

Image by National Cancer Institute
Dr Tan Chun Hai, Surgicare, Colonoscope
Dr Tan Chun Hai, Surgicare, Colonoscope
Dr Tan Chun Hai, Surgicare, Colonoscope, Gastroscope

Colonoscope

Tumour

  • Previous history of colorectal polyps

Dr Tan Chun Hai, Surgicare, Colonoscope

  • If you have a family history of colorectal cancer. Patients with family members who had colorectal cancer are at high risk of developing colorectal cancer.

If you have any of these symptoms:

  • Bleeding, blood in stools

  • Constipation

  • Diarrhoea

  • Change in bowel habit

  • Decrease in stool calibre

  • Abdominal distention

  • Abdominal pain

  • Low blood count, Anaemia

Dr Tan Chun Hai, Surgicare, Colonoscope

  • If you are 50 years old and above. Colorectal screening.

Dr Tan Chun Hai, Surgicare, Colonoscope

  • Lifestyle and Dietary Risk factors – 

    • Overweight and Obesity 

    • Long history of cigarette smoking.

    • Excessive alcohol intake

    • High consumption of processed meat. E.g. sausages, bacon, luncheon meat

Some of the above mentioned symptoms may be suggestive of colorectal cancer!

Colorectal cancer is the most common cancer in Singapore. It is also the most common cause of death in Singapore. Survival depends on the stage of disease upon detection. 5-year survival in early stages is up to 95%, while in advanced disease is <5%. 

 

Most colorectal cancers start out as polyp. The time for progression from a pre-malignant polyp to invasive cancer may be 5 years or more. A window of opportunity exists when these polyps may be safely removed via colonoscopy, effectively preventing the development of colorectal cancer.

Early detection saves lives. Schedule your colonoscopy today!

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What to expect during the colonoscopy procedure?

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PRE PROCEDURE

  • You will consult Dr Tan in his clinic, and scheduled for colonoscopy at the next available time slot of your choosing

  • You will check in to endoscopy centre 30 – 60 mins before colonoscopy

  • Dr Tan or an anaesthetist will give you an injection of sedative just before the start of your colonoscopy

DURING THE PROCEDURE

  • You will be in deep sleep during the colonoscopy.

  • Colonoscopy usually takes less than 30 minutes. If there are polyps or abnormalities detected, it will be removed immediately and the colonoscopy may take longer. 

  • If you have a gastroscopy scheduled together, your colonoscopy is usually done after the gastroscopy

AFTER THE PROCEDURE

  • You will be awake about 15-30mins after the gastroscopy / colonoscopy.

  • You will be monitored in endoscopy centre recovery area

  • Dr Tan will come and explain the results of your gastroscopy / colonoscopy when you are awake. Any medications required will be given to you at the same time.

  • You will be given some refreshments after you are fully awake.

Frequently Asked Questions
polyp
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