Procedures

Colonoscopy is an endoscopic examination of the lower gastrointestinal tract. It is an accurate and informative method of evaluating a wide variety of digestive symptoms.

Indications for colonoscopy include but not limited to the following:

  • Colon Cancer Screening /Surveillance
  • Asymptomatic individuals age > 50
  • Family or personal history of polyps/cancer
  • Individuals with history of Ulcerative or Crohn’s Colitis
  • Investigation of gastrointestinal Bleeding
  • Investigation of iron deficiency anemia
  • Chronic Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • All abdominal problems

The procedure

Colonoscopy procedures are completed in our clinic under full sedation administered by an Anesthetist. High tech video colonoscopy equipment is used to perform the examination. We take full advantage of the fact that all colon cancer comes from polyps (small wart-like growths on the lining of the inside of the colon), and we remove them on the spot during the colonoscopy examination.

 

Complications of Colonoscopy

  • Post polypectomy bleeding – This is the most common complication that can occur after a polypectomy (removal of a polyp). The overall rate of bleeding is 1-2%.
  • Perforation- This is an uncommon complication following colonoscopy. The overall rate of perforation is 1 in 2000. The risk is higher after polypectomy.

Patient must contact our clinic and go to the nearest emergency department if any of the above complications is suspected.

Gastroscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or EGD) is a procedure where a doctor uses an endoscope and examines the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract (gut). The upper gut consists of the oesophagus (gullet), stomach and duodenum.

Indications for gastroscopy include but not limited to the following:

  • Upper abdominal
  • Persistent esophageal reflux symptoms
  • Swallowing difficulties
  • Persistant vomiting
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Surveillance of Barrett’s esophagus and ulcers
  • All gastrointestinal problems

The Procedure

Gastroscopy (EGD) is a commonly performed routine test and is a relatively safe procedure. This procedure is completed in our clinic under full sedation administered by an anesthetist.
A gastroscopy usually takes about 5 minutes.

Complications of Gastroscopy

  • Aspiration
  • Perforation
  • Bleeding

The overall rate of complications during a gastroscopy is approximately 1 in 800.

  1. How many days do I have to fast for before the colonoscopy?

You only have to fast the day before your procedure. You will be on all clear fluids diet the whole day.

Unless directed otherwise by your physician. 

  1. The day before my colonoscopy, what am I allowed to drink?

You cannot eat any solid food. You can have chicken or beef or vegetable broth, Jello, Gatorade, tea & coffee. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Do not take any dairy products. Avoid drinks that are red or green in color.

 

  1. I have tried taking the prep and it is making me nauseous. What should I do?

You may try chilling and drinking the prep with a straw. Try eating freezes or popsicles (yellow or orange colour only). You may take some Gravol as well if there are no allergies.

4.   Can I take a taxi home after my procedure?

Yes but you we strongly recommend that you have a responsible adult accompany you. You cannot take a bus home alone.

5.   How long can I expect to be at the clinic?
Expect to be at the clinic approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

 6.  Is sedation available? 
Yes. The physician will advise you as to what type of sedation is recommended for your circumstances. Sedation is advised in new patients, especially females with a history of constipation, hysterectomy, caesarean section or endometriosis.

7.  What can I expect after the procedure?
You will remain in the recovery room for close observation for ½ hour or longer. You may feel bloated and experience some abdominal pain or discomfort. You will be able to resume your normal diet after the procedure unless instructed otherwise.

8. How can I cancel or reschedule my appointment?

If you need to change or cancel your appointment, we require FIVE business days notice or a cancellation fee of $100 will apply to rebook.

Arrival at the clinic:

  1. If you are having a procedure, you must arrive at the clinic ½ hour before your scheduled appointment. You must bring a valid health card. You should also have your completed questionnaires (yellow & pink sheets) with you.
  1. Your ride to the clinic may stay at the clinic with you or they may provide us with a contact number and leave. We will contact them once your procedure is completed and you are in the recovery room.

Admitting:

  1. A nurse will call you in once a procedure room is available. He/she will review your medical history with you and get you ready for the procedure.

Procedure:

  1. You will have a consultation with our anesthetist and our gastroenterologist before your procedure. They will review with you your medical history and the reason you are being referred to the clinic.
  1. You will receive sedation and be monitored throughout the procedure by our anesthetist. A Nurse will also be present in the procedure room to assist during the procedure.
  1. Once the procedure is completed, you will be awake but may still feel groggy. You will be transferred to the recovery room.

 

Recovery

  1. You will stay in recovery for ½ hour or more if needed. You will be provided something to drink. Recovery nurse will be monitoring you during your time in recovery and will review the result with you.
  1. Recovery nurse will contact your ride.

You will be provided with discharge information and once the anesthetist has determined that you are ready for discharge, you are able to leave.

  1. You may be booked a follow up appointment if needed.

Full Sedation

We have full time anesthesiologists on site that will administer sedation for the procedures and will closely and continuously monitor patients during the procedure and recovery time.

Complications of Full Sedation

 

The main risks & possible side effects of full sedation include:

  • Over Sedation
  • Respiratory Depression
  • Hematoma (localized swelling ) formation at the site of IV

You will be continuously monitored while under sedation.  Your blood pressure, oxygen saturation, heart rate and respiratory rate is continuously monitored throughout the procedure and while in recovery.