The colon is the final part of the human digestive system, measuring approximately 5 feet in length. Its primary function is to store and absorb water from undigested food residue before the body eliminates it as stool. The colon begins where the small intestine ends and terminates at the anus. Proper colon hygiene and regular screening are vital in preventing serious diseases.
 

• Direct Evaluation: Assessing colon-related issues such as bleeding, chronic abdominal pain, or unexplained chronic diarrhea.
• Targeted Treatment: Identifying the exact location of internal bleeding and providing immediate treatment.
• Cancer Screening: Detecting and removing polyps (non-cancerous growths) that could potentially develop into cancer in the future.
• Superior Accuracy: Unlike X-rays, a colonoscopy allows physicians to perform a biopsy or remove polyps instantly and painlessly.

• Individuals aged 45 years and older.
• Those with a family history of colon cancer or polyps.
• Individuals experiencing abnormal symptoms, such as blood in stool, black stool, changes in stool shape/size, or chronic constipation/diarrhea.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Patients with underlying conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease).
• Those who previously had polyps and require follow-up as recommended by a doctor.

The Digestive Disease Center at Bumrungrad International Hospital is the first in Southeast Asia to be recognized by the ASGE (American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) for excellence in safety, hygiene, and physician expertise.

• Adenoma Detection Rate (ADR) - 33%: Higher than the international benchmark (≥ 25%). This reflects the precision of our medical team in finding small polyps before they turn into cancer.
• Cecal Intubation Rate - 99.5%: (Global benchmark ≥ 95%). This ensures a complete examination of the entire colon, leaving no area uninspected.
• Safety First: Based on 2024 statistics, our rate of major complications and mortality from the procedure is 0%, confirming the safety of our screening process.

• Medical History: Inform your doctor about underlying diseases, current medications (especially blood thinners), allergies, and past surgeries.
• Strict Compliance: Following bowel preparation instructions is the most critical step for a successful and accurate diagnosis.
• Dietary Restrictions: Avoid vegetables, fruits, and high-fiber foods at least 1 day before the procedure.
• Fasting: No food or water 8–10 hours before the procedure (as advised by your doctor).
• Laxatives: Consume the prescribed laxatives provided by the hospital to ensure the colon is completely clear.

• Sedation: You will receive intravenous medication to help you feel sleepy and relaxed (painless procedure).
• Examination: The doctor will insert the scope to the beginning of the colon to check for polyps, ulcers, or abnormalities. If suspicious tissue is found, a biopsy or removal will be performed immediately.
• Duration: The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes. You may feel slight bloating due to the air used to expand the colon for better visualization.

 

• You may resume a normal diet but must avoid alcohol for 24 hours.
• Bloating or gas is normal; passing gas will help you feel better.
• Avoid strenuous activities (e.g., running, lifting over 5kg, or cycling) for 1–2 days.
• Medication: If you use Aspirin, Plavix®, or NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen), consult your doctor before resuming these medications.
• Safety: Do not drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours after the procedure due to the effects of sedation.

• Slight bloating or abdominal cramps usually disappear within 24 hours.
• Minor rectal bleeding may occur if a biopsy or polyp removal was performed.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, fever, or vomiting.

While a Colonoscopy is the "Gold Standard," other options include:

• Barium Enema: An X-ray using contrast material. It may still require a follow-up sigmoidoscopy for clarity.
• CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): A detailed scan that may miss small polyps and cannot perform biopsies or treat inflammation.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test: A stool test for hidden blood. If positive, a colonoscopy is still required for confirmation.