Colon Wash

A colon wash is a simple medical procedure which is painless and fast and replaces the need for the classic 3-4 litre liquid purge which is often not well accepted, and actually is often not well tolerated by a large number of patients.

How is a Colon Wash performed?

The patient lies on their side or back and a cannula is inserted into the rectum. It is made up of two tubes, a smaller one for the passage of water into the colon and a larger one for the removal of faecal matter and waste water from the colon. The cannula is attached to a machine which controls the pressure and temperature of the water. The operator performs multiple irrigations and during the session can modify the criteria so as to have better results and more personalized treatment. In addition an abdominal massage is done to improve the fragmentation and detachment of faecal matter from the mucous membrane of the colon. The patient can actually see the passage of waste material from their intestine through a transparent tube. There are no unpleasant odours as the passage of water and faeces takes place in a closed loop system.

 Is a Colon Wash as effective as a traditional preparation?

Yes. Colon Wash, if performed by expert personnel, is just as efficient as traditional preparation, but just like traditional preparation, in a limited number of patients the results may be less than perfect to undergo a colonoscopy. In such cases further information will be given to the patient in order to completely clean the intestine.

What are the advantages?

The advantages are numerous:

• The patient can avoid the classic preparations, thereby reducing discomfort and disadvantages;
• Saves the patient a lot of time in that they need to show up an hour prior to the colonoscopy;
• The body is less exposed to stress thanks to the possibility of eliminating the need for the classic 3 or 4 litre purge drink;
• Generally the emotional state of the patient is much calmer;

Colon Wash and pain

Is a colon wash painful?

A Colon Wash is not at all painful, and actually gives the patient a sense of well-being thanks to the warm water which runs through the colon with very little pressure and thanks to the abdominal massage. Sedation is not used because the examination is painless and because patient collaboration is required

Contraindications, risks and duration of the Colon Wash

Are there contraindications or risks involved in a Colon Wash?

There are no contraindications besides those associated with the colonoscopy. Therefore if your doctor has prescribed a colonoscopy then cleansing using the Colon Wash method is possible. A Colon Wash may be contraindicated if a colonoscopy is contraindicated. In addition a colon wash is completely risk-free.

How long does the treatment last?

About 45 minutes and once it is done the patient will immediately undergo the colonoscopy in an adjacent room

Where to have a colon wash done

What are the centres that perform Colon Wash?

In some CertisMed centres it’s possible to request a booking for this exam. Anyone interested can contact the patient answering service to request more information about the centres where Colon Wash is done.