Colonoscopy Singapore – A colonoscopy is a crucial diagnostic procedure used to examine the inside of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. It’s particularly important for individuals over 50, as it can help detect early signs of colorectal cancer or other conditions like polyps and inflammatory bowel disease. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in Singapore for both men and women, and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Do not let colorectal cancer go undetected until it has become advanced cancer.
>> Click for Colonoscopy Facts and get early detection of colorectal cancer <<
If you are new to colonoscopies – the account below provided by a reader would be of interest to you. Find out how it is to go through a colonoscopy procedure.
My Colonoscopy In Singapore: A Personal Account
Initial Consultation With A Gastroenterologist
I am 52 years old and have been experiencing bloatedness and discomfort for some time now. After discussing my symptoms with my gastroenterologist at a public hospital, she recommended that I undergo a colonoscopy due to my age, medical history, and the fact that it had been over eight years since my last procedure.
Preparing For Bowel Prep
My doctor suggested using Picoprep as an alternative laxative option as I disliked having to take too much liquids with the laxatives. This alternative preparation requires mixing with only 150ml of water, making it more convenient than traditional options. The bowel prep process began three days before the colonoscopy when I switched to a low-fibre diet consisting of rice, noodles, chicken, and fish. No red meats, nuts, vegetables, fruits, or fried and oily foods were allowed.
Clear Liquid Diet Before Colonoscopy
The day before my procedure, I followed a clear liquid diet. For simplicity, I drank plain water throughout the day. After lunch, I started taking Picoprep mixed with 150ml of water. This led to multiple trips to the bathroom starting about two hours later.
The Day Of Colonoscopy
On the morning of my procedure, I took another pack of Picoprep at 6 AM and started fasting from 7 AM onwards, stopping any liquid intake as well. My reporting time at the hospital was set for 10:45 AM. Shortly after arrival, I changed into a hospital gown and had a catheter tube inserted into my hand to facilitate subsequent sedation.
The Procedure Room
After a brief wait, I entered the procedure room where I lay down on the table. Sedative medication was administered through the catheter, making me draft into a light sleep almost immediately. During the procedure, which lasted under an hour, I actually woke up halfway through. I’m not sure how common this was, but there was no alarm and the procedure continued without interruption or fuss. I was actually rather fascinated watching my doctor navigate through my colon using advanced endoscopy technology.
Advanced Technology In Colonoscopies
The colonoscopy procedure seemed to be assisted by AI, with green boxes appearing on the video screen at various points along my colon, indicating areas of interest. My doctor removed several polyps during the procedure, which would then be sent for biopsy. The endoscope was also able to jet streams of water to clear the parts of the colon that hadn’t been fully cleaned during bowel prep.
Post-Procedure Recovery
After the procedure, I was wheeled out to a resting area where I recuperated for about an hour. During this time, I enjoyed a warm cup of Milo and some crackers to help with my recovery. The procedure report indicated the removal of around half a dozen polyps of varying sizes. These polyps were described as sessile polyps, which are more likely to develop into cancer according to online resources. It was reassuring to know that potentially dangerous growths had been detected and removed. At the same time, it was surprising to me that so many had developed since my last colonoscopy 8 years ago.
Follow-Up Appointment With My Gastroenterologist
I am now waiting for the next appointment with my gastroenterologist, who will review with me the results of the biopsy.
The Importance Of Regular Colonoscopies
My experience highlights the importance of regular colonoscopies, especially as you age or if you have risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer. The process can be expensive without subsidies, costing over S$3,000 for unsubsidised patients in a public hospital. However, with government subsidies (may be as much as 80%), and applicable insurance and MediSave claims (subject to approval), it can reduce significantly to around just S$150 out of pocket. If you are due for a colonoscopy (aged 50 and above, and have not done one in the last 5-7 years), I would highly recommend that you consider going for one as it is crucial for early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer.
Book A Colonoscopy Singapore Or A Doctor Consultation
If you are looking to book a colonoscopy in Singapore, you can browse some colonoscopy choices in our mall here. Alternatively, contact us via the button below for an appointment with a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist on your colorectal health.
Click for content in Simplified Chinese, Bahasa Indonesia, and Vietnamese.
Protect against cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic diseases with regular health screening. Compare and shop for health screenings from Singapore and regional healthcare providers at a single convenient platform - health365.asia.
This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.