Colonoscopy is a procedure a doctor uses to look at the inside of the colon and rectum with a colonoscope, which is a long, flexible tube about the width of a finger with a light and small video camera on the end. It’s put in through the anus and into the rectum and colon. Special instruments can be passed through the colonoscope to biopsy (sample) or remove any suspicious-looking areas such as polyps, if needed.

What preparations are necessary for patients before undergoing endoscopy?

• Colonoscopy is performed to detect colorectal diseases, and therefore, a thorough colon cleansing is required prior to the procedure.
• Before the endoscopy, patients should refrain from consuming high-fiber foods and vegetables for a few days. In the evening before the procedure (at least 2 hours before taking any medication), a light meal such as porridge or soup is permissible.
• The recommended method for colon cleansing is to use oral colon cleansing medications like Fortrans or Fleet.

*Instructions for using FORTRANS:

• Prior to 5:00 PM, a light meal can be consumed (e.g., meat or fish porridge); however, it is important to avoid vegetables or foods with seeds.
• After 5:00 PM, fasting is necessary, and consumption of colored fluids (coffee, coke, etc.) should be avoided until the procedure.
• At 7:00 PM, dissolve 1 packet of FORTRANS in 1 liter of water and try to consume the entire solution within 1 hour (from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM).
• After taking the medication in the evening, it is recommended to engage in physical activity, such as walking, to stimulate bowel movements instead of remaining sedentary (additional intake of filtered water, sugar water, or coconut water is permissible).
• The following morning at 5:00 AM, dissolve 2 more packets of FORTRANS in 2 liters of water and consume the entire solution within 2 hours (from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM, drinking it as quickly as possible).
• After completing the consumption of the 2 packets of FORTRANS, patients should refrain from eating and drinking.

*Note:

• If sedation is administered during the endoscopy, it is important to avoid drinking water 2 hours before the procedure.
• In case of any unusual symptoms experienced while taking the medication, please contact the Yersin Medical Secretary at 0909 27 1284 (Mr. Sơn Tịnh).