Patient Resources

Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is a test procedure done using an endoscope, which is a long, thin, flexible tube with a 'video camera' at the tip. This tube is passed through the mouth into the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach and first part of the small intestine.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy (scope) is the examination of the lower gastrointestinal tract to diagnose, and in some cases, treat problems. Colonoscopy can detect polyps, inflamed tissues and cancers, such as colorectal cancer. It can help doctors diagnose unexplained changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bleeding from the bowel and weight loss.

Bowel Preparation

Bowel preparation empties and cleans the bowel before a colonoscopy or surgery. A thoroughly clean bowel is essential for an adequate examination — any residual stool can hide polyps or early cancers and may mean the procedure needs to be repeated sooner. Following the prep instructions carefully gives Dr Choi the best possible view and the most accurate result from your procedure.

Capsule Endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is also known as pill-camera or wireless endoscopy.

ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, or ERCP, is a specialised procedure used to examine the ducts, or 'drainage tubes', of the gall bladder, pancreas and liver.

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is an endoscopic procedure that uses an ultrasound probe added to the tip of an endoscope. It gives the doctor an endoscopic view and allows detailed ultrasound examination of the organs surrounding your upper gut, including the pancreas, bile duct, gallbladder, liver and spleen.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

Flexible sigmoidoscopy uses a flexible tube with a 'video camera' at the tip to inspect the lining of the rectum, anus and lower part of the colon (bowel).

Bowel Polyps

A bowel polyp is an abnormal fleshy growth extending from the inner wall of the large bowel (colon and rectum).

Bowel Cancer Prevention

Your diet and lifestyle choices, as well as screen and surveillance, can influence your risk of getting bowel cancer.

Constipation

Constipation is a common complaint in Australia and other developed countries. Up to one in five adults report that they have constipation, although only a minority of people seek medical attention.

Diverticular Disease

Diverticular disease is a common condition in which small pouches or 'pockets' (known as diverticula) form in the lining of the large bowel or colon. When there are multiple diverticula, this is known as diverticulosis. Diverticulitis is when the diverticula become inflamed or infected.

Advanced Liver Disease

The liver is the body's largest internal organ and has many essential functions.

Fatty Liver Disease

'Fatty liver disease' describes conditions characterised by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver. When too much fat is stored in the liver, it can lead to liver scarring, or 'cirrhosis'. Fatty liver is very common and can affect more than 1 in 3 Australians.

Gallstones

Gallstones (biliary calculi) are small pebble-like substances that form in the gallbladder. They can block the normal flow of bile if they move from the gallbladder and lodge in any of the ducts (tube-like passageways) that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine.

Reflux

Reflux is also known as 'acid reflux' or 'gastro-oesophageal reflux'. When your stomach contents rise up, or 'reflux', into your oesophagus (food pipe), you can have an uncomfortable burning feeling or discomfort in your chest.

Helicobacter Pylori

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterium (germ) that can infect the human stomach. The bacterium lives in the lining of the stomach, and the chemicals it makes inflame the stomach lining.

Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency is when the amount of iron in your body becomes too low, which happens when your body's iron needs are not met by the iron you get from your diet, or you lose too much iron over time.

Lactose Intolerance

Lactose is a sugar that naturally occurs in the milk made by all mammals, including cows, sheep and goats. It is made of two individual sugar molecules (glucose and galactose) joined together.

Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term used to describe two main diseases: ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which cause inflammation of the bowel. This inflammation is thought to be due to an imbalance of the immune system, and is not due to an infection.

IBD & Diet

In general, most patients with IBD should follow the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating, and do not need to restrict their diet. However, there is emerging or established evidence to support specialty diets for specific situations.

IBD & Mental Health

Up to 50% of people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) experience psychological distress associated with their illness. This fact sheet explains how your physical and mental health are linked, the types of psychological problems you might experience, and the support options available to you.

IBD & Life with a Stoma

A stoma is a surgically made opening in the abdominal wall to attach the small or large bowel. Bowel output then drains into a specially designed disposable collection bag.

IBD & Sexual Health

IBD may impact on physical and emotional aspects of sexual health, regardless of your sexual orientation or relationship status. Whilst you may shy away from talking about this topic, it is important to remember that this is a normal and essential part of maintaining your quality of life and your IBD team can guide you in navigating any concerns.

IBD & Surgery

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can often be managed with medication alone. However, a proportion of patients may require surgery, and the decision for this involves you and a multidisciplinary team of doctors, surgeons and other members of your IBD team.

IBD & Travel

You may find the thought of traveling daunting when you have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). With careful planning, it should be possible for you to travel safely to most places for both short and long holiday.

IBD & Vaccinations

The management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may include drugs that suppress your immune system. Before commencing treatment with a drug that alters your immune system, your IBD team will check your immunity to certain diseases and may ask you to undergo vaccination.

IBD & Complementary & Alternative Therapies

Complementary and alternative therapies encompass a range of medicinal, psychological or physical therapies that are not considered conventional treatment.