Rescheduling or Cancelling a Colonoscopy: Guidelines for Adjustments and Postponements
At-home tests can serve as an alternative to a screening colonoscopy, but they require regular checks every 1-3 years. If these tests reveal any abnormalities, a colonoscopy will be necessary.
A colonoscopy is a valuable tool in the detection and treatment of colorectal cancer. It can aid in the removal of large colon polyps, treat bleeding, and diagnose the cause of symptoms such as bleeding, inflammation, or abdominal pain.
The National Health Service (NHS) recommends individuals aged 45-75 to undergo regular colorectal cancer screenings, which may include a colonoscopy. Those aged 76-85 may attend screenings according to their personal preference, health, life expectancy, and medical history. For adults aged 76-85 years, evidence suggests there is minimal benefit for colorectal cancer screening in this age group.
However, certain medical conditions may necessitate the cancellation or rescheduling of a colonoscopy. Examples include recent heart attack, peritonitis, hemodynamic instability, recent surgery with colonic anastomosis, bowel injury and repair, and active inflammation due to toxic megacolon, ulcerative colitis, fulminant colitis, Crohn's disease flares, or diverticulitis.
If a person is unsure whether they are suitable for a colonoscopy, they can consult a doctor to discuss next steps. Pregnant individuals should consider the potential risks and benefits of a colonoscopy, as the final decision lies with the pregnant individual. A 2021 systematic review suggests that a colonoscopy may be safe during the second trimester of pregnancy, but may only be suitable during pregnancy if there is a strong indication of cancer.
People can still have a colonoscopy while menstruating, and they can wear a tampon during the procedure if they feel more comfortable. If a person has a cold, they should call the facility before having the procedure, as a mild cold may be fine, but a fever or a cough with mucus or phlegm may require rescheduling.
Health professionals generally recommend a repeat colonoscopy if there are clear indications such as unclear or recurring symptoms, incomplete previous examination, detection of suspicious lesions needing further evaluation, acute inflammation, or other clinical changes suggesting new or persistent pathology. If a colonoscopy shows any abnormalities, people will then need to have a follow-up colonoscopy or additional tests.
If a person has canceled a colonoscopy, they need to speak with a doctor to reschedule the procedure for a suitable time. Regular screenings are crucial in the early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer, making it vital for people to prioritise their colon health.
