Colonoscopy
- The role of your gastroenterologist is to help you understand your symptoms better.
- Our role is to investigate the gut to help your GP or specialist make an accurate diagnosis
- After a colonoscopy, Dr. Jayasekeran or your GP will follow up with you depending on the findings and results
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy involves a direct visual check of the large intestine (colon). You can be referred to our endoscopy clinic by your GP, if there are concerns about your overall gut health.
The procedure is carried out by inserting a flexible instrument through the anus. The instrument is inserted with precision along the entire length of the colon. Dr. Jayasekeran will also be actively looking for polyps. If polyps are found, he will remove them with a snare (by a process called polypectomy). As an expert in gut health, Dr Jayasekeran performs colon cancer screenings routinely and safely at SJOG Murdoch Hospital.
Gastroenterologist Perth
How to prepare for a colonoscopy?
At Gutworks Perth we value the importance of giving you clear information when you are scheduled for a screening.
First of all Dr. Jayasekeran and his team will provide you instructions on the different steps in preparation for a colonoscopy procedure. This also involves a ‘colonoscopy prep diet’. Your colon needs to be totally empty of its stool contents to ensure a good quality examination. This is important to avoid missing important problems such as early colon cancer or polyps. Therefore, you will get written instructions for a three day modified colonoscopy diet, which essentially eliminates fibre rich foods and seeds.
You will also get a colonoscopy prep drink. It means that you drink several sachets of a strong laxative. The purgative effect is important to empty your colon. It is essential that you drink plenty of water or clear fluids to avoid dehydration during this process.
Why is a colonoscopy needed?
Your GP may tell you that you need a colonoscopy. In general, patients are referred to us at Gutworks, when there is a concern about gut health. A colonoscopy is mainly an investigative procedure to get more information. It also allows Dr. Jayasekeran to obtain biopsy samples or remove any potential pre-cancerous growths in your bowel.
The common indications to refer you to a colonoscopy clinic are:
- Fresh bleeding from the anus
- Unexplained change in your general bowel habits
- Iron deficiency with or without anaemia
- Positive National Bowel Cancer screening test
- Unexplained diarrhoea
- To exclude bowel cancer
- To exclude all forms of colitis (bowel inflammation)
- Screening for colonic polyps
- Screening linked to a family history of bowel cancer
How long does a colonoscopy take?
On the day of the procedure, you will meet your gastroenterologist Dr. Jayasekeran and your anaesthetist. Then you will be taken to the procedure room at the hospital.
Your procedure will take 20 to 30 minutes.
Our expert anaesthetist will give you expert care. It includes providing deep sedation through an intravenous procedure (a drip in your vein). This is done to keep you asleep and comfortable during the procedure.
At all times, the team in the procedure room keeps a close eye on your pulse, blood pressure and oxygen saturation. Recovery from the anaesthesia can take an hour. After that, you will usually be allowed to drink and eat.
Gastroenterologist Perth
If you have any questions about your upcoming colonoscopy procedure, feel free to contact Gutworks Perth. Our team is here to answer your questions about colonoscopy cost or the differences between endoscopy, colonoscopy and gastroscopy. It is common practice to undertake an endoscopy and colonoscopy during the same session on the day of your hospital appointment.
What to expect after a colonoscopy?
At Gutworks we know that you want clear information. You may be slightly anxious when you undergo a test with your gastroenterologist. Our team always focuses on giving you that clarity.
After your procedure, Dr. Jayasekeran will talk to you and explain the findings. If he has taken biopsy specimens during the procedure, he will discuss the next steps. This could involve follow-up with your referring GP. In other situations, you may be asked to follow up with Dr Jayasekeran. The exact follow-up depends on your circumstances, and on results that may come in after your colonoscopy.
Dr. Jayasekeran’s patients from all over Perth refer to his unrushed consultation style. This is important as you may be worried about the outcomes of your procedure. His mission as a specialist doctor is to use his vast experience and give you clear information.
About Gutworks
Our core procedures include:
- Gastroscopy
- Colonoscopy and polypectomy
- Video capsule endoscopy
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
When to see a gastroenterologist
Endoscopy St John of God Hospital Murdoch
Your enquiry
Contact Us
Contact Details
Phone: 08 9335 3411
Fax: 08 9335 6155
Office hours
Mon-Fri: 08:00 - 16:00
Sat-Sun: closed
Consulting rooms address
Suite 106, Level 1, Tower C Murdoch Square, 44 Barry Marshall Parade, Murdoch WA 6150Hospital site for Endoscopy Procedures
Endoscopy Unit, SJOG Murdoch Hospital,
100 Murdoch Drive, Murdoch WA 6150