Colonography

I have just had a colonograpy for stomach pain and have been told that a fold was detected in my abdomen. I have been told that I need a colonoscopy in about 12 weeks. My questions are why would I have a colonoscopy and not an endoscopy for an abdomen problem and also is 12 weeks a reasonable time for this to be done? 

  • Hello therU177cap and thanks for posting

    I am sorry to hear you are needing to have a colonoscopy following a CT colonography and appreciate the questions you have.

    Usually if something unusual is seen on a colonography ( where both pictures of both the bowel and back passage are taken) the doctors may request a colonoscopy so that the bowel can be inspected closely and biopsies (tissue samples) taken to give further information.

    As we are not directly involved in your care we can't say for sure why this is needed so I would ask your doctor for more information about this and about the time frame as well.

    There are different pathways that people are able to access tests within the NHS dependent on the urgency and this will shape the time people need to wait. Having said that as I am sure you are aware the NHS is under great strain at the moment and due to lack of resources many people are needing to wait much longer than usual because of this.

    I hope this is helpful. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk thingthrough with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Wishing you all the best and hope everything turns out okay for you,

    Naomi