What you need to know
Colonoscopies are a very common procedure undertaken at Mater for patients of all ages.
A colonoscopy is a procedure where the Gastroenterologist (specialist doctor) looks at the inside of the large bowel (colon) using a special camera called a colonoscope.
A mild general anaesthetic will usually be used for this procedure. The endoscope is a long flexible tube that has a light and a camera on the end of it. The main reasons for this procedure are to investigate abdominal pain, diarrhoea or bleeding from the bowel. There is usually preparation required for this procedure, which should have been already discussed with you by your doctor.
How long will it take?
The procedure itself will take about 40 minutes. Your child will then go to the recovery room. Therefore your child will be away from you for approximately one hour. Your child will then be required to stay in the Day Unit for approximately one hour following the procedure.
When can my child eat and drink again?
If your child is awake on return to the Day Unit, they can have clear fluids immediately (breast fed babies can have a breast feed). A light diet will be offered when fully awake.
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