A Colonoscopy is a common day procedure used to examine and inspect the bowel, colon or large intestine. A colonoscopy can assist with the diagnosis and treatment of a range of conditions associated with the colon and rectum.

The procedure is performed by a long, flexible plastic tube called a colonoscope. Under sedation or light anaesthetic, the colonoscope is inserted via the rectum into the colon allowing the doctor to carefully examine the lining of the bowel. Should abnormal tissue be identified during the examination, a biopsy may be taken for further evaluation. Sometimes polyps may be located during a colonoscopy. A polypectomy may also be performed at this time to remove the small growth.

Gastroscopy, or endoscopy, is a commonly performed procedure to examine the inside of the upper gastrointestinal tract and duodenum. It is used to investigate symptoms such as indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting. Gastroscopy can also be used to detect ulcers or tumours.

The examination is conducted using an endoscope - which is a long, thin, flexible tube with a small camera at the tip. The endoscope is passed through the mouth and oesophagus, into the stomach and duodenum. The camera transmits an image to a monitor which allows the surgeon to review the lining of the upper GI tract.

During the procedure, your surgeon may remove any polyps that have been located or take a biopsy of abnormal tissue for further examination.