Colonoscopy: cost, NHS wait & what to expect

Overview

A colonoscopy is a test that looks at the inside of the large bowel (colon) using a thin, flexible tube with a camera. It can find and often treat problems such as polyps at the same time.

Why it's done

• Change in bowel habit, bleeding or unexplained symptoms
• Follow-up of a positive bowel-screening test
• Surveillance for people at higher risk of bowel cancer

What happens

You take bowel-cleansing preparation beforehand. The test takes around 30–45 minutes, usually with sedation or gas-and-air. Small polyps can be removed and biopsies taken during the test.

Recovery

• Rest for the day if you have sedation, and do not drive
• Some bloating or wind afterwards is normal
• Results for biopsies take a week or two

Risks & things to consider

• Discomfort or bloating
• Small risk of bleeding, especially after polyp removal
• Very small risk of a tear (perforation)
• Sedation risks

Alternatives

• CT colonography (a scan) in some situations
• Stool tests such as FIT for screening
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy for the lower bowel only

Questions to ask your provider

• Do I need sedation, and can I get home safely?
• Does the price include polyp removal and biopsies?
• When and how will I get my results?
• What preparation do I need to take?