Colonoscopy

Procedure Overview

Colonoscopy at Gangnam Heartscan Healthcare Center is a comprehensive lower gastrointestinal endoscopic examination that inspects the entire colon, rectum, and terminal ileum using Olympus high-definition video endoscopy systems. Considered the gold standard for colorectal screening, colonoscopy detects precancerous adenomatous polyps, inflammatory bowel changes, colitis, and early colorectal cancer, with optional conscious sedation available.

Clinical Indications

• Preventive colorectal cancer and adenomatous polyp screening
• Evaluation of changes in bowel habits, chronic diarrhea, constipation, or lower abdominal discomfort
• Investigation of occult blood in stool, rectal bleeding, or unexplained iron-deficiency anemia
• Surveillance follow-up after prior colonic polypectomy or inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis

How the Screening Works

1. Pre-Procedure Check & Sedation: Review of bowel cleansing completion and vital signs, followed by optional intravenous conscious sedation with continuous monitoring.
2. High-Definition Colonoscopic Inspection: The flexible video colonoscope is gently advanced to the cecum and slowly withdrawn while the specialist inspects the colonic mucosa in detail.
3. Mucosal Biopsy or Polyp Management: Tissue sampling or endoscopic evaluation of detected lesions is performed as clinically indicated, followed by post-procedure observation in the recovery lounge.

Preparation & Precautions

• Thorough bowel cleansing is essential for accurate mucosal visualization: avoid seeded fruits, seaweed, whole grains, and high-fiber foods for several days before the exam and complete the prescribed bowel preparation regimen.
• Consult your prescribing physician in advance if you take blood thinners (aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, or direct oral anticoagulants) or diabetes medications.
• If conscious sedation is used, do not drive on the day of the procedure; if a biopsy or polyp procedure is performed, follow specific post-procedure dietary and flight travel guidance from your physician.