Pediatric Colonoscopy

A pediatric colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to visually examine the large intestine (colon) and rectum of children and adolescents.

Indications

• Diarrhea or constipation that does not respond to treatment
• Blood in stool
• Abdominal pain
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
• Polyps or other growths in the colon
• Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
• Other conditions that affect the colon and rectum

Preparation

Before a pediatric colonoscopy, the child will need to:

• Follow a special diet for 1-3 days before the procedure, which may include a clear liquid diet
• Take laxatives or other medications to cleanse the bowel
• Avoid eating or drinking anything for several hours before the procedure

Procedure

During a pediatric colonoscopy:

• The child will be given sedation or anesthesia to help them relax and reduce discomfort
• A flexible tube with a camera and light on the end (colonoscope) will be inserted into the rectum and guided through the colon
• The doctor will visually examine the inside of the colon and rectum for any abnormalities, such as polyps or inflammation
• Biopsies may be taken for further examination
• The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes to complete

Risks and Complications

Possible risks and complications of a pediatric colonoscopy include:

• Bleeding or perforation of the colon
• Infection
• Adverse reaction to sedation or anesthesia
• Discomfort or pain during or after the procedure

After the Procedure

After a pediatric colonoscopy:

• The child will be monitored for several hours to ensure they recover from sedation or anesthesia
• They may experience bloating, gas, or discomfort, which should resolve on its own
• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to discuss the results of the procedure and any further treatment needed

Special Considerations

Pediatric colonoscopy requires specialized training and equipment, and should only be performed by a qualified gastroenterologist or pediatric gastroenterologist.