Table of Content
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.
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.
Overview
Who should go for colonoscopy?
If you have any of these symptoms
- Bleeding, blood in stools
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Change in bowel habit
Medical History
- Previous history of colorectal polyps
- 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 are 50 years old and above. Colorectal screening.
Lifestyle and Dietary Risk Factors
- Overweight and obese
- Long history of cigarette smoking
- Excessive alcohol intake
- High consumption of processed meat. E.g. sausages, bacon, luncheon meat
Early detection saves lives.
Schedule your colonoscopy today.
Some of the above-mentioned signs 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.
Before the 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.
20+ Years of Clinical Expertise
Dr Tan Chun Hai (陈俊海医生)
Upper Gastrointestinal, Bariatric & General Surgeon
Endoscopy & Minimally-Invasive Surgery Specialist
Dr. Tan Chun Hai is a dual fellowship-trained specialist in Laparoscopic (keyhole) Stomach Cancer Surgery and Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery. He is proficient in minimally invasive surgical techniques, treating conditions such as gallstones, appendicitis, GERD, and upper gastrointestinal cancers of the stomach and oesophagus.
In addition to his surgical expertise, Dr Tan specialises in performing endoscopies and managing a wide range of digestive disorders. These include abdominal pain, bloating, heartburn and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
When applicable, Dr. Tan provides same-day treatment within a few hours of diagnosis. Dr. Tan subscribes to a less invasive practice, promoting less postoperative pain and shorter hospital stays.
Have a concern?
Send us your enquiry or give us a call at 6250 5610
For emergencies after hours, send us a text via WhatsApp > head to Gleneagles Urgent Care Centre and request for Dr. Tan Chun Hai
Our Clinic: 6A Napier Road, Gleneagles Hospital Annexe Block, #05-36A, Singapore 258500
Frequently Asked Questions
- Generally, a colonoscopy takes less than 30 minutes. If there are polyps to be removed or abnormalities detected, it may take longer.
- Any polyps seen will be removed immediately and sent to the laboratories.
- Colorectal polyps are abnormal growth of cells on the inner lining of the colon and rectum. They are common and incidence increases with age.
- Most polyps are benign (not cancer). But because polyps are caused by abnormal cell growth and, like cancer, grow through rapidly dividing cells, they can become cancerous.
- Through a colonoscopy, the polyp can be removed and sent for examination by a pathologist. Colonoscopy and removal of polyps decreases the incidence of colorectal cancer. Countries with colorectal cancer screening programs have reported a significant drop in colorectal cancer cases and deaths. This is due to early detection of colorectal polyps with colonoscopy, the removal of which prevents the development of cancer.
- The treatment of colonic polyps involves performing a colonoscopy and removing the entire polyp. The removed polyp is then sent for histological examination to determine if it is benign (not cancer) or a malignant change (cancerous) has already occurred.
- Depending on the number and size of polyps removed, a follow up colonoscopy will be recommended from 1 to 5 years later. If there are any cancer cells found in the polyp, surgery may be required.
Yes, we can schedule for gastroscopy and colonoscopy at the same visit.
Colonoscopy remains the gold standard of detecting and removal of colonic polyps. Other options can be considered for patients who are not fit for colonoscopy, or would like a non-invasive option.
CT Colonography – this is a virtual colonoscopy performed by a CT scanner. It is being used to screen for polyps in the large intestine. After adequate bowel preparation, a tube is inserted into the rectum to inflate with gas while CT images of the colon and rectum are taken from various angles.
Barium Enema – this entity is seldom used nowadays with the advent of CT colonoscopy. It involves using a white solution being inserted into the anus via a tube to coat the lining of the colon. This allows the colonic lining to be visible on X-ray, highlighting any difficulties of the white solution going through indicating an abnormality at the region.
While these options are able to detect polyps in the colon, they are not as accurate as colonoscopy. In the event these polyps are found, colonoscopy will still have to be performed to remove them. Colonoscopy is still the recommended method for screening for colorectal cancer. Dr Tan will advice you according to your needs and preferences.
- Reaction to the sedation.
- Perforation of the colon is rare, occurring in less than 0.1% of colonoscopy.
- Bleeding after polypectomies. Please inform Dr Tan if you are on blood thinners or anti-platelets medications. These are usually started if you had a stroke, heart attack or stent placed in your body. These medications are usually started by your GP, cardiologist or neurologist. Bleeding can occur immediately after the scope, or up to 10 days after the procedure.
- Abdominal Bloating – this usually settles within a day or two after the endoscopy.
- Sore throat
