PATIENT RESOURCES
Your Procedure, Clearly Explained
Understanding what’s involved in an endoscopy, gastroscopy or colonoscopy can make the process feel much less daunting.
We perform procedures at accredited hospitals, under light sedation, with a clear recovery plan and follow-up communication.
Anal Fissure
The main surgical procedure for an anal fissure is a lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS), which involves making a small cut in the internal anal sphincter muscle to relieve spasm and allow the fissure to heal. Another option is a Botox injection, which temporarily relaxes the muscle. Both procedures aim to stop the cycle of pain and muscle spasm, and LIS has a very high success rate.
Understand the full procedure and preparation:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anal-fissure
Anterior resection
An anterior resection is a surgical procedure that removes part or all of the rectum and lower colon, typically to treat bowel cancer. The remaining ends of the bowel are then joined, or “anastomosed,” using stitches or staples. The surgery can be performed via an open incision or minimally invasively with laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery.
Bowel Preparation
The preparation process involves taking specific laxative medications and following a clear liquid diet for a period before the procedure to ensure the colon is completely empty.
Following Instructions
Your doctor or healthcare provider will give you detailed, specific instructions for the bowel prep, including the type of laxative, when to start the clear liquid diet, and when to take the doses of the preparation solution. It is critical to follow these instructions precisely. A complete and clean bowel is necessary for the doctor to clearly visualize the colon lining; otherwise, polyps or other abnormalities might be missed, and the procedure may need to be repeated.
Bowel Resection
A bowel resection is a surgical procedure to remove a diseased or damaged section of the small or large intestine. The surgery is performed to treat conditions like cancer, Crohn’s disease, or diverticulitis, and to remove blockages or tears. After the affected area is removed, the healthy ends of the bowel are reconnected, or sometimes a stoma is created.
Colonic resections
A colonic resection is a surgical procedure to remove part of the colon, which can be performed using an open approach with a single large incision or a laparoscopic (keyhole) approach with several small incisions. The surgery involves removing the diseased section of the colon and sometimes nearby lymph nodes, then reattaching the healthy ends of the remaining colon to restore continuity. If rejoining is not possible, a temporary or permanent stoma (an opening to the abdomen) may be created.
Understand the full procedure and preparation:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/surgery/colon-resection-for-colon-cancer
Colonoscopy
Preparing for a colonoscopy is crucial for a successful procedure. The preparation process, which focuses on thoroughly cleaning your bowel, can vary based on individual patient needs and the specific protocol of your healthcare facility.
Understand the full procedure and preparation:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/colonoscopy
Endoscopy
Preparing for an Endoscopy
An endoscopy is generally not painful, but your doctor will typically use a light sedative or anesthetic to keep you comfortable. Because of this medication, you must arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. You will not be able to operate a vehicle or heavy machinery for the rest of the day.
Fasting Instructions
You will be required to stop eating and drinking for several hours before your endoscopy. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how long you need to fast before the procedure. It is critical to follow these instructions exactly, as having food or liquid in your stomach can be dangerous and could cause your procedure to be cancelled.
Understand the full procedure and preparation:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/endoscopy
Gastroscopy
Preparing for a gastroscopy is straightforward and mainly involves fasting and reviewing your medical history.
Fasting Instructions
For a gastroscopy, you must have an empty stomach. This is essential to give the doctor a clear view of your upper digestive tract and to prevent you from vomiting during the procedure.
- You should not eat or drink for about 6 hours before the gastroscopy.
- Your doctor or nurse will give you the specific time you need to stop eating and drinking. Follow their instructions exactly.
Understand the full procedure and preparation:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/gastroscopy
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid procedures range from minimally invasive office-based treatments like rubber band ligation and sclerotherapy to surgical options such as hemorrhoidectomy for severe cases. Less invasive methods include infrared coagulation or stapled hemorrhoidectomy, while more invasive ones involve removing hemorrhoid tissue with a scalpel or laser. Procedures are chosen based on the size and location of the hemorrhoids, with many non-surgical treatments available for internal hemorrhoids.
Understand the full procedure and preparation:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/haemorrhoids-piles
Right Hemicolectomy
A right hemicolectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the right side of the colon, the last part of the small intestine, and surrounding lymph nodes and tissue. The remaining ends of the small and large intestines are then joined together, a process called an anastomosis. The surgery can be performed using a traditional “open” incision or minimally invasive “keyhole” (laparoscopic) surgery
Understand the full procedure and preparation:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hemicolectomy
What Happens After?
You’ll receive:
- Clear written instructions for aftercare
- A summary of findings
- A report sent to your GP
- Any follow-up advice needed