Colonoscopy Treatment in Southampton & Hampshire

---

If you’ve been advised to undergo a colonoscopy or you’re experiencing bowel-related symptoms, expert colonoscopy treatments in Southampton and surrounding areas in Hampshire are available with Mr Nigel D’Souza, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon. Colonoscopy patients across Hampshire including  Southampton, Winchester, Eastleigh, Romsey, Isle of Wight and the New Forest, can visit Mr D’Souza for accurate diagnosis, bowel cancer screening, and personalised colonoscopy care at Hampshire based hospitals including Spire Southampton Hospital and Nuffield Health Wessex Hospital in Eastleigh.

What Is a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a camera examination of the entire colon. A thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (an endoscope) is gently inserted through the anus. Images are transmitted to a monitor, allowing your physician to:

• Visualize the lining of your lower digestive tract
• Biopsy suspicious areas
• Remove polyps or other small growths

There are two types of camera examinations commonly performed of the colon: flexible sigmoidoscopy (to examine the last 1-2 feet of the colon) vs colonoscopy.

As part of comprehensive colonoscopy treatments in Southampton and Hampshire, Mr D’Souza uses high-definition endoscopic equipment to ensure a safe, accurate examination. 

Why Colonoscopy is Recommended

You may need a colonoscopy in the following scenarios:

Evaluation of Symptoms

– Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool

– Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)

– Unexplained abdominal pain or cramping

– Iron-deficiency anemia

Ongoing Monitoring of Known Conditions

– Previous colon polyps or colorectal cancer

– Inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease)

Abnormal Test Results

– Positive faecal immunochemical test (FIT: stool-based test for blood)

– Abnormal CT or MRI findings.

During your consultation Mr D'Souza will assess your symptoms, medical history and any previous test results, and decide together with you whether a colonoscopy is the right investigation for you. Mr D'Souza's approach is based on shared decision-making, ensuring you understand the benefits, risks and alternatives before proceeding. Mr D'Souza's research background is in FIT testing and colorectal cancer risk, which means he  can provide expert interpretation of your FIT result and advise whether further investigation is warranted.

Benefits of Endoscopic Examination

A colonoscopy offers several important benefits, including:

- Early Detection of Cancer & Precancerous Polyps: This procedure allows for the removal of polyps before they turn into cancer.

- Accurate Diagnosis: It enables direct visualization of bowel disease and the ability to obtain tissue samples for definitive diagnosis with pathology confirmation.

- Peace of Mind: You will receive clear answers about the cause of your symptoms, emphasizing the significant colonoscopy benefits.

What to Expect: Colonoscopy Preparation & Procedure

Bowel Preparation

A clean colon is essential for an effective examination. Your colonoscopy preparation will require:

- Clear‑liquid diet (1–2 days before)

- Bowel prep solution (laxative drink) the evening before and/or morning of the procedure

- Hydration with clear fluids up until a few hours prior

Follow instructions closely—an incomplete prep can delay or prevent a successful exam.

Day‑of Procedure

Arrival: Check in at the endoscopy unit.

Sedation:

- Sigmoidoscopy often uses light sedation or none at all.

- Colonoscopy typically uses moderate to deep sedation (you’ll be drowsy or asleep).

Duration:

- Sigmoidoscopy: ~10–15 minutes

- Colonoscopy: ~20–45 minutes

During the exam:

- You lie on your side.

- The endoscope is advanced slowly; air or carbon dioxide is gently insufflated to improve visibility.

- You may feel mild cramping or pressure.

Recovery & Results

Recovery time: 30 minutes to 1 hour in the recovery area.

Discharge: You’ll need someone to drive you home if sedated.

Results discussion:

- Immediate feedback on whether polyps or other findings were removed.

- Biopsy results take 1–2 weeks; Mr D’Souza will follow up with you.

Risks & Safety

Lower GI endoscopy is very safe, but as with any procedure, there are small risks:

• - Bleeding (especially after polyp removal)
• - Perforation (tear) of the bowel wall (< 0.03 %)
• - Adverse reaction to sedation
• - Temporary abdominal discomfort or bloating.

Why Choose us for your Colonoscopy Treatment?

Mr Nigel D’Souza is a Consultant Colorectal Surgeon specialising in bowel investigation and treatment. Patients choose him for:

• Extensive experience in colonoscopy and colorectal diagnostics
• A clear, compassionate and patient-centred approach
• High-quality facilities at local private hospitals
• Expertise in the interpretation of FIT results and cancer risk stratification