Endoscopy
A camera examination of the whole large intestine to find the cause of bleeding, change in bowel habit or anaemia - and to find and remove polyps early.
Overview
A colonoscopy examines the rectum and the entire colon (large bowel), and often the last part of the small intestine. A flexible colonoscope with a light and camera is passed through the back passage while you are sedated, and the lining is viewed on a high-definition monitor.
Colonoscopy can diagnose inflammation (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), bleeding sources, strictures and growths. Most importantly, polyps - small growths that can turn into cancer over years - can often be removed during the same procedure.
Where: Done at Medigest clinic, West Punjabi Bagh.
Endoscopy
Colorectal cancer usually develops slowly from polyps over several years. A colonoscopy can find these polyps while they are small and remove them in the same sitting, which is why colonoscopy is used both to diagnose symptoms and to screen people at higher risk. It is also the main test for inflammatory bowel disease, bleeding from the lower gut and unexplained changes in bowel habit.
The quality of a colonoscopy depends on how clean the bowel is. You will be asked to eat a low-fibre diet for one or two days and take clear liquids the day before. The bowel preparation solution is usually taken in split doses, the evening before and early on the day of the test. Your stool should be clear or pale yellow liquid by the time you arrive. If you have diabetes, kidney disease or take blood thinners, tell the clinic in advance so the instructions can be adjusted.
Colonoscopy is a routine procedure with a low risk of complications. Bloating and cramps after the test are common and pass quickly. Uncommon risks include bleeding after polyp removal and reactions to sedation, and rarely a perforation. The doctor explains these before you consent.
Colonoscopy at Medigest is performed by Dr. Shrihari Anikhindi using a high-definition system with image enhancement, which helps in examining flat or subtle lesions. You receive your colonoscopy report and images on the day, and polyp or biopsy reports are explained once they are ready. A surveillance plan is advised based on what was found.
The price of a colonoscopy depends on whether sedation is used, whether polyps are removed or biopsies taken, and the tests needed on the samples. The clinic tells you the full cost before the test.
For the current charges, call the clinic on +91-9971156846 or ask when you book - the clinic tells you the full cost before the test.
Coverage under health insurance depends on your policy. Please check with your insurer and ask the clinic for the documents you need.
A screening colonoscopy may be advised if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, a personal history of polyps, long-standing inflammatory bowel disease, or if you are older and have never been screened. The right age and interval depend on your risk, which the doctor will discuss with you.
Book a consultation or request an online consultation to discuss whether Colonoscopy is right for you.
Before & after
General guidance - the clinic gives you personalised instructions when you book.
On the day
You are given sedation so that you are relaxed and comfortable.
The colonoscope is advanced around the colon; a little air or CO₂ helps the view.
Polyps can be removed and samples taken during the same test.
You rest for a short while and the doctor explains the findings.
FAQ
Colonoscopy is usually done under sedation, so most patients are drowsy and comfortable and remember little of the procedure.
A clean bowel lets the doctor see the lining clearly. Poor preparation can hide polyps and may mean the test has to be repeated.
In most cases, yes. Small and medium polyps are usually removed during the colonoscopy and sent for examination.
Most people feel back to normal the same day. Because of sedation, plan to rest at home, avoid driving and return to work the next day. You can usually eat normally once you are awake.
If the bowel is not clean enough, small polyps can be missed and the doctor may advise repeating the test. Following the diet and taking the full preparation solution on time gives the best chance of a complete examination.
The interval depends on what is found and your risk. After a normal screening colonoscopy, a long gap is usually advised; after polyp removal or in inflammatory bowel disease, shorter intervals are common. The doctor gives you a written plan.
Book a consultation first by phone, WhatsApp or the online form. Done at Medigest clinic, West Punjabi Bagh. The clinic will share preparation instructions.
Related
A short camera test of the rectum and lower colon for rectal bleeding, piles, inflammation and polyps - usually without full bowel preparation.
Learn moreAt clinicA short camera test of the food pipe, stomach and duodenum to find the cause of acidity, pain, bleeding or swallowing problems - with biopsies when needed.
Learn moreA pill-sized wireless camera that photographs the small intestine - the part a routine endoscopy or colonoscopy cannot fully reach.
Learn moreAppointments
Visit the clinic in West Punjabi Bagh, or book an online consultation from home.
