colonoscopy via stoma

Hello bluestar,

My last colonoscopy was via the stoma and it was confirmed that bowel prep wasn't necessary as the colon was effectively clear anyway. However, I also have a loop ileostomy. For the sake of a phone call it is worth checking. 

Dulac

Hi bluestar 

It’s a good idea to have drainable bags at the ready, because it will be much easier to manage rather than quick filling bags. My understanding is that the bowel prep is required even with a stoma, so if you’ve been provided with it, that would indicate it is required. No harm in double checking with the doctor today if you feel you need to, and hope everything goes well for your dad.

Sarah xx

Hi bluesman.

I have had quite a few colonoscopies through my stoma, a colostomy. You definitely need the bowel cleanse beforehand. Twice after mine it wasn't clean enough so I had to have it repeated. The cleanse I was given was Picolax, which I understand is not the favourite. For my last one I was given Clean Prep which was very effective. I  actually find colonoscopies through my stoma less uncomfortable than the normal way.

Kim

Sorry bluestar. My phone changed it to bluesman!!

Hi Kim,

thank you so much for your words of wisdom.  I'm hoping Dad finds it easier .... he isn't very forthcoming with conversation but I know it was a struggle with the prep jollop... you'd think they'd make it nicer !!!

Best regards  

I was sent the bowel prep but my stoma nurse was adamant that it was not required. I think it was because the ileostomy meant that the colostomy had nothing to do and my colon was effectively redundant. The colonoscopy team were unsure but after some discussion agreed that this was correct. I imagine that the routine had not been challenged before.

Dulac