Colonoscopy
Thorough assessment of bowel health using advanced endoscopic technology
A colonoscopy is one of the most important and effective diagnostic procedures used to assess bowel health and investigate gastrointestinal symptoms. At Bowel Diagnostics & Therapy, our colonoscopy services support early detection, accurate diagnosis, and timely treatment planning for a wide range of bowel and digestive conditions.
A colonoscopy involves the use of a thin, flexible tube fitted with a high-resolution fibre-optic camera. This instrument allows the doctor to closely examine the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. The procedure is designed to detect abnormalities such as inflammation, polyps, diverticular disease, bleeding sources, or structural changes within the bowel.
Colonoscopy is often recommended when patients experience persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, including rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, unexplained changes in bowel habits, chronic constipation or diarrhoea, or when stool tests indicate abnormalities. It is also an essential tool in bowel cancer screening and prevention, allowing early detection of precancerous polyps before they develop into more serious conditions.
What a Colonoscopy Can Detect
During the procedure, the doctor carefully inspects the bowel wall, looking for changes that may indicate underlying disease. Common findings may include:
Polyps or abnormal growths
Diverticular disease
Areas of inflammation consistent with colitis
Sources of rectal bleeding
Narrowing or structural abnormalities
Indicators of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
If an abnormality is found, the doctor may perform a biopsy by gently removing a small tissue sample. This sample is then sent to pathology for microscopic review, helping to provide an accurate diagnosis and guide further management.
Comfort, Anaesthetic & Bowel Preparation
Your comfort and safety are our priority. Prior to the procedure, patients undergo bowel preparation, which ensures the colon is clear enough for the doctor to obtain a complete view. While preparation can be mildly uncomfortable, it is a routine and essential part of achieving accurate results.
To ensure a smooth and pain-free experience, a sedative or light anaesthetic is administered during the colonoscopy. This helps you remain relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. Most patients have little or no memory of the procedure and are able to go home the same day with an escort.
Our practitioners provide detailed instructions before your colonoscopy and are available to answer any questions you may have about preparation, sedation, or recovery.
Why Colonoscopy Matters for Early Detection
Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for identifying early signs of bowel disease. Many conditions—including bowel cancer—may not cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages. A colonoscopy allows specialists to detect changes long before they become advanced, supporting early intervention and more effective treatment outcomes.
If you have abnormal stool test results, gastrointestinal symptoms, or a family history of bowel cancer, your practitioner may recommend this investigation as part of a specialist assessment or ongoing treatment plan.
Do I Need a Referral for a Colonoscopy?
If you have not yet visited Bowel Diagnostics & Therapy and require a colonoscopy, a referral from your usual General Practitioner is required for a consultation with one of our specialists. During this consultation, the specialist will review your symptoms, assess your medical history, and coordinate the necessary endoscopic procedures.
Book Your Colonoscopy Consultation
If you have questions about specialist referrals or need support managing bowel symptoms, we’re here to assist.
📞 Call 1300 888 608 for a confidential discussion
🌐 Or book an appointment online.
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