Thomas Ho SURGERY
Colorectal Cancer is the #1 Cancer in Singapore
Prevention begins with a Colonoscopy
Why do I need a Colonoscopy?
Colorectal Cancer is the most common cancer affecting both Men and Women in Singapore. That said, it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer.
Colonoscopy is a preventive measure for diseases such as colon cancer and rectal cancer.
Worldwide studies have shown that early detection of cancer and the removal of polyps can save lives!
- MBBS(Sydney), MMed(Surg), AFRCS(Ireland), FRCS(Edinburgh), FAMS(General Surgery), FSSO(USA)
- 20+ Years Surgical Experience
- Accredited Surgical Oncologist (MOH-Scholar)
- Formerly Head of Surgical Department @ Woodlands Health Campus
- Founded the Head & Neck Surgical and Surgical Oncology Service @ Tan Tock Seng Hospital
What is a Colonoscopy?
A Colonoscopy helps in the detection of abnormalities such as Polyps, Cancerous Growths, or other changes to the mucosal lining.
This is done by having a Colonoscope inserted painlessly through the anus and carefully maneuvered by your Surgeon.
This allows the Surgeon to have an internal view of the large intestines, including the rectum and colon.
The Colonoscope also allows for the surgeon to remove any Polyps and sample the tissue for any signs of cancer.
Symptoms and who is at risk of Colorectal Cancer
Even without symptoms, going for regular screenings is encouraged as a measure of prevention.
You should get a Colonoscopy if:
- You are 50 years old or older
- Has a family history of colorectal cancer
- Experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort
- Experiencing unexplained weight loss
- Bleeding on the backside or blood in stools
- Experiencing weakness or fatigue
Individuals who are at higher risk includes a family or personal history of Colorectal Cancer, or a previous history of having Colorectal Polyps.
It is recommended for such individuals to go for a colonoscopy screening 10 years prior to youngest case in the family, or age 40 years (whichever is earlier).
Why do I need a Colonoscopy?
Colorectal Cancer is the most common cancer affecting both Men and Women in Singapore. That said, it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer.
Colonoscopy is a preventive measure for diseases such as colon cancer and rectal cancer.
Worldwide studies have shown that early detection of cancer and the removal of polyps can save lives!
- MBBS(Sydney), MMed(Surg), AFRCS(Ireland), FRCS(Edinburgh), FAMS(General Surgery), FSSO(USA)
- 20+ Years Surgical Experience
- 2000+ Completed Surgeries
- Accredited Surgical Oncologist (MOH-Scholar)
- Formerly Head of Surgical Department @ Woodlands Health Campus
- Founded the Head & Neck Surgical and Surgical Oncology Service @ Tan Tock Seng Hospital
What is a colonoscopy?
A Colonoscopy helps in the detection of abnormalities such as Polyps, Cancerous Growths, or other changes to the mucosal lining.
This is done by having a Colonoscope inserted painlessly through the anus and carefully maneuvered by your Surgeon.
This allows the Surgeon to have an internal view of the large intestines, including the rectum and colon.
The Colonoscope also allows for the surgeon to remove any Polyps and sample the tissue for any signs of cancer.
Symptoms and who is at risk of Colorectal Cancer
Even without symptoms, going for regular screenings is encouraged as a measure of prevention.
You should get a Colonoscopy if:
- You are 50 years old or older
- Has a family history of colorectal cancer
- Experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort
- Experiencing unexplained weight loss
- Bleeding on the backside or blood in stools
- Experiencing weakness or fatigue
Individuals who are at higher risk includes a family or personal history of Colorectal Cancer, or a previous history of having Colorectal Polyps.
It is recommended for such individuals to go for a colonoscopy screening 10 years prior to youngest case in the family, or age 40 years (whichever is earlier).
Colorectal Cancer can be prevented by getting a Colonoscopy. Consult Dr Thomas Ho today!
Colorectal Cancer can be prevented by getting a Colonoscopy. Consult Dr Thomas Ho today!
How do I prepare myself for a Colonoscopy?
You will be given a bowel prep solution to drink on the night before or the morning of the procedure. This will result in repeated large bowel movements to clear the large intestine of faecal material.
It is best to also avoid a high-fibre diet 3 days before the colonoscopy. You should also inform the surgeon if you have any drug allergies or are taking any blood-thinning medications as these may have to be stopped in advance.
What happens during a Colonoscopy?
You will be placed on your side with your knees drawn toward your chest. Medications will be given through an IV line to help you relax and remain comfortable.
You may or may not fall completely asleep during the colonoscopy, but most patients will not be able to remember the procedure.
Some monitoring devices will be attached to your body during the examination. The whole procedure should take up to 20 to 30 minutes during which, you may experience abdominal bloating. The nurse may apply occasional pressure with her hand on your abdomen to assist in the procedure.
What happens after a Colonoscopy?
When the procedure is completed, you will be transferred back to the recovery ward where monitoring continues while you recover from the sedation. As flatus (gas) is passed, you will feel less bloated/distended.
When you are fully awake and comfortable, you will be given a drink and some food. It is strongly recommended that you have someone to accompany you home after the procedure.
How do I prepare myself for a Colonoscopy?
You will be given a bowel prep solution to drink on the night before or the morning of the procedure. This will result in repeated large bowel movements to clear the large intestine of faecal material.
It is best to also avoid a high-fibre diet 3 days before the colonoscopy. You should also inform the surgeon if you have any drug allergies or are taking any blood-thinning medications as these may have to be stopped in advance.
What happens during a Colonoscopy?
You will be placed on your side with your knees drawn toward your chest. Medications will be given through an IV line to help you relax and remain comfortable.
You may or may not fall completely asleep during the colonoscopy, but most patients will not be able to remember the procedure.
Some monitoring devices will be attached to your body during the examination. The whole procedure should take up to 20 to 30 minutes during which, you may experience abdominal bloating. The nurse may apply occasional pressure with her hand on your abdomen to assist in the procedure.
What happens after the colonoscopy ?
When the procedure is completed, you will be transferred back to the recovery ward where monitoring continues while you recover from the sedation. As flatus (gas) is passed, you will feel less bloated/distended.
When you are fully awake and comfortable, you will be given a drink and some food. It is strongly recommended that you have someone to accompany you home after the procedure.
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Related Information
Colonoscopy is a very common day surgery procedure and major complications are rare.
Should there be any, they may include:
- Severe reaction to medications
- Bleeding from the site of biopsy or polypectomy
- Perforations (tears) along the lining of the intestinal wall
Should these occur, it is important to contact your Surgeon urgently so that follow-up measures may be undertaken immediately.
Any form of colorectal screening is demonstrated to be cost-effective compared to no screening. The best method of screening is controversial and difficult to determine.
Various methods ranging from serum tumour marker, faecal occult blood testing, barium enema to CT colonography are available.
However, when considering patient compliance and accuracy, getting a colonscopy once or twice in your lifetime appears to have the best acceptance and accuracy.
CONTACT US
- Mount Alvernia Hospital 820 Thomson Road, #06-63/64, Medical Centre D Singapore 574623
- enquiries@thomashosurgery.com
- +65 6261 8311
- +65 8809 2724
- Gleneagles Medical Center, 6 Napier Road, Singapore 258499
- enquiries@thomashosurgery.com
- +65 6261 8311
- +65 8809 2724
Please fill up the contact form to enquire more, and we'll get back to you!
One of the top General Surgeons in Singapore