An Incomplete Colonoscopy: What to Ask Before Going Through Prep Again
Bloating & DigestionArticleUse the report to clarify why the examination stopped and what a repeat test or alternative should answer.
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After a colonoscopy, severe abdominal pain, fever, vomiting or passing large amounts of blood needs prompt medical care. Contact your GP or go to the nearest emergency department, as Guy’s and St Thomas’ advises. Take your colonoscopy report with you; do not wait for a repeat-test discussion.1
“Can you show me what was examined?”
Guy’s and St Thomas’ provides a printed report and an explanation of findings before discharge. It notes that a colonoscopy may be one of several tests, so its result may not be conclusive.1
Use that report to start the conversation: “Which parts were examined, and what could you assess there? Which part of the original question remains unanswered?”
Ask the clinician to explain any wording you do not understand. If you had sedation and cannot remember the discussion, say that you need it explained again. Keep any separate laboratory-result question on the same page.1
“Why did the examination stop?”
The trust explains that a colonoscopy sometimes cannot be completed because it is too uncomfortable or the preparation did not empty the bowel fully. A repeat test or a different procedure may be suggested.1
Ask which reason applies to your examination. Describe what you experienced without trying to soften it: difficulty drinking the preparation, feeling sick, or discomfort during the test. Ask the team what it wants to discuss before another appointment is arranged.
You can say, “I want the investigation completed, but I need you to understand what was difficult this time.”
“Why are you recommending this next test?”
Ask whether the proposed next step is another colonoscopy or an alternative, and what that choice should establish. Have the clinician connect the recommendation to the part of the assessment that remains incomplete.
The trust describes CT-based bowel imaging as an alternative that cannot take biopsies or remove polyps. A colonoscopy may still be needed afterward.1
If imaging is suggested, ask whether tissue sampling or polyp removal is part of the question your team needs answered. Request an explanation of the benefits, limitations and risks of the option proposed for you.
“What needs to be settled before I book?”
Ask your unit for current written preparation instructions and a discussion of comfort options. Have it address the specific difficulty you experienced. Do not add extra laxatives or change prescription medicines yourself to try to ensure the next test succeeds.
Confirm who arranges the next step, which contact to use for questions and what support or transport your own appointment requires.
Bloated by Dinner includes a Test It list and visit script. Use them to keep the report, unanswered question and explanation of the next step together. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
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