What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an examination of your large intestine with a camera on the end of a thin flexible tube (a colonoscope). It makes it possible for your colorectal specialist to look for polyps and cancerous growths.
If you had a positive faecal occult blood test (FOBT) or if you have had symptoms of colorectal cancer (e.g. blood in your stool, abdominal cramps, changed bowel habits), you will usually be referred for a colonoscopy.
What happens if the colonoscopy detects cancer?
If colorectal cancer is detected, you will probably need to have surgery. Your colorectal cancer specialist will discuss your results with you and create a cancer treatment plan that suits your situation.
There is a very high chance of cure if the cancer is found early.
What if nothing is found with colonoscopy?
If no polyps or cancerous growths are found, you have a very low risk of colorectal cancer within the next 10 years.
Your colorectal cancer specialist will discuss your results with you and advise you about further testing or future screening.
