The colon lining is examined to check for abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, and tumors. For accurate observation, please follow the dietary restrictions and bowel preparation instructions provided when making your appointment.
Colonoscopy Guide
Please check the preparations and cost before the examination, as well as precautions after the examination. Follow the instructions provided when making your appointment regarding the type of bowel preparation medication and when to take it.
The colon lining is directly observed to check for abnormalities such as colorectal polyps, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and ischemic or infectious colitis. If necessary, a biopsy may be performed, and polyps that can be removed may be resected after considering the patient’s condition and the size and location of the lesion. Not all polyps are removed on the day of the examination.
If you have bloody stool, persistent abdominal pain or bloating, unexplained weight loss, long-lasting diarrhea or constipation, or changes in bowel habits, consult a doctor about whether an examination is needed. Tell the medical staff about any family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, previous colonoscopy or biopsy results, and surgical history.
The national colorectal cancer screening program first performs an annual fecal occult blood test for people aged 50 and over, followed by a colonoscopy if the result is positive. If you have symptoms or have had a polyp removed, the follow-up interval is determined individually based on the examination results, biopsy findings, number and size of polyps, whether they were completely removed, bowel preparation status, and family history. Review your previous results with the medical staff and decide when to have your next examination.
Fruits with seeds, whole grains, kimchi, seasoned vegetables, seaweed, and nuts may remain in the bowel and interfere with observation, so restrict them for the period specified when making your appointment. Instructions regarding the types of food and time of the last meal on the day before the examination, as well as when to fast and stop drinking water, will be provided according to your examination appointment time. Follow the preparation instructions provided by the hospital first.
Follow the prescribed type of bowel preparation medication, the specified amount and dosing times, and the amount of water to drink with it. Dosing times may differ depending on whether the examination is in the morning or afternoon. If vomiting or other difficulties make it hard to take the medication, or if bowel movements are insufficient, do not change the instructions on your own; contact the hospital. Inform the hospital in advance about underlying conditions such as kidney or heart disease and any medications you take.
Tell the medical staff about all medications you are taking, including anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, diabetes medications, and insulin, as well as allergies and any previous adverse reactions during sedated examinations. Do not stop medications on your own; follow the individual instructions of the prescribing clinician and the medical staff performing the examination. Arrange for a caregiver to accompany you for a sedated examination, and avoid driving, operating machinery, drinking alcohol, and making important decisions on the day of the examination.
Your abdomen may feel bloated from gas after the examination. Depending on your recovery and whether a biopsy or polyp removal was performed, start eating after the time specified in the instructions. If you have persistent bloody stool or black stool, severe abdominal pain, fever, or dizziness, contact the hospital or receive emergency medical care. After polyp removal, separate instructions will be provided regarding meals, activities, and medication.
The non-covered colonoscopy fee is 100,000 won, and the sedation fee for colonoscopy is 60,000 won. If you undergo gastroscopy and colonoscopy together, the sedation fee is 80,000 won, as separately 안내되어 있습니다. The actual amount you pay may vary depending on insurance coverage and additional procedures such as biopsy or polyp removal. Confirm the estimated cost at 02-6958-7070.
