Colonoscopy - Screening for Intestinal

With a background at the Liang Clinic and the Frankel Clinic, Dr. Chua Tee Lian is a general practice physician who cares for Singapore patients at the C & K Family Clinic. Dr. Chua Tee Lian emphasizes health services focused on preventative care and undertook various health screenings.

One important screening procedure as people age is a colonoscopy, which helps identify abnormalities and changes in the colon (large intestine) and the rectum. It is performed by inserting a colonoscope, or flexible tube, into the colon via the rectum, with an attached camera providing video imaging of the inside of the colon. In addition to diagnostics, the scope can be used to remove abnormal tissues such as polyps. Biopsies, or tissue samples, may be taken as well.

In general, colonoscopies are recommended at least once a decade for people age 50 and of average colon cancer risk. In addition, they are advised to investigate specific symptoms such as chronic constipation or diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and abdominal pain. Involving minimal risk, colonoscopies typically take between 30 minutes to an hour to perform.