What is a colonoscopy?
In a colonoscopy, I examine the large intestine with an endoscope – a flexible tube with a light source and camera that is inserted through the anus. This allows me to view the inside of the bowel, take tissue samples and carry out minor procedures.
When does a colonoscopy make sense?
Screening from 45
During a colonoscopy, I can detect polyps – growths of the mucosa from which bowel cancer can develop – early and remove them straight away. Performed in good time and regularly, this can prevent bowel cancer from developing. Screening colonoscopy is recommended from the age of 45.
Other reasons
- blood in the stool or a positive test for hidden blood in the stool
- changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhoea or constipation
- unexplained abdominal pain
- bowel cancer in the family – then screening even before 45
- follow-up after removal of polyps or after bowel cancer
In addition, diverticula (outpouchings of the bowel wall), chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, as well as acute inflammation and circulatory disorders of the bowel wall can be detected.
Preparation
Careful bowel cleansing is important so that the mucosa can be assessed properly. You will receive a plan tailored to your appointment for diet, drinking solution and times of intake.
Please inform me about your medication and pre-existing conditions. The personal preparation instructions you receive from us are authoritative.
Course of the examination
I usually examine at the Wiener Privatklinik, the Privatklinik Confraternität – Goldenes Kreuz, the Evangelisches Krankenhaus or the Rudolfinerhaus.
The examination is performed under twilight sedation. You are given a sleep-inducing drug by injection so that you are not aware of the examination. The endoscope is carefully advanced to the junction of the small intestine and the large intestine. Insufflating CO₂ unfolds the bowel so that it can be seen clearly. The examination takes about 20 minutes. I remove any polyps painlessly at the same time.
After the examination
After the examination, you recover in the recovery area. After sedation, your reactions and judgement are temporarily impaired. You should therefore not drive a vehicle on the day of the examination.
Tissue samples are examined in pathology. As soon as the results are available, I will discuss them and any further steps with you.
Gastroscopy
In a gastroscopy, I examine the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. If necessary, I can take tissue samples. The examination is performed under twilight sedation and takes about 10 minutes.
It makes sense in cases of upper abdominal pain, reflux and heartburn, swallowing difficulties and if a gastric or duodenal ulcer or a tumour is suspected. I often combine it with a colonoscopy.
Costs
With supplementary private insurance for inpatient care, colonoscopy is usually billed directly. You have to pay for gastroscopy yourself. Without supplementary private insurance, I will be happy to give you information about the costs by phone: +43 680 330 11 45. Billing via the e-card (Austrian public insurance card) is not possible.
Frequently asked questions
Will I feel anything during the colonoscopy?
I perform the examination under twilight sedation. This makes the examination gentle and painless.
From what age is screening colonoscopy recommended?
From the age of 45. If there is bowel cancer in the family, earlier as well.
Can I drive after the examination?
You should not drive a vehicle on the day of the examination after sedation, as your reactions and judgement are temporarily impaired.
Are the costs covered?
With supplementary private insurance for inpatient care, colonoscopy is usually billed directly. You have to pay for gastroscopy yourself. Billing via the e-card (Austrian public insurance card) is not possible.