For the colonoscopy to be thorough and safe, your bowel must be completely empty. Therefore, to prepare for the procedure, you must follow the dietary instructions and take the laxative (Pico-Salax or Klean Prep) as explained in the instructions. You will need to pick up the laxative at your local pharmacy.
You will need to use one of the two preparations below. You will told which one to use by our clinic. Please do not hesitate to call us if you have any questions.
The Purpose:
Since all colon cancers come from polyps, we aim to find polyps early through the colonoscope and remove them before they turn into cancer, i.e. cancer prevention. A polyp looks like a wart or cherry. Routine colonoscopy prevents cancers by removing polyps.The Scope:
The new technology we use is the video colonoscope. It has a video chip in its tip, which transmits visual images to a television monitor. Using controls at the head of the instrument we can bend the tip through about 360° so we can see around corners. There are channels for injecting air, for sucking out gas and fluid, and a washer to clean the tip of the instrument for good visibility.Another channel allows us to insert forceps to take a bite out of a lesion and a snare to remove a polyp. The cramps or fullness that occur during the procedure last only a few seconds and occur as we progress around a corner. Compared to the ravages of colon cancer, this amount of discomfort is certainly worth it!
You will not be allowed to drive after the procedure till the next morning , as you will be given sedation for a comfortable procedure. Please have someone pick you up or if you choose to go by taxi or public transit , you must be accompanied by someone.
The fee for the examination is paid for by OHIP. If you have any questions, please ask us.