If you take a medication to thin your blood (such as Coumadin, Plavix or Lovenox) and have not already discussed this with our office, please call us at 612-871-1145.
If you take aspirin, you may continue to do so.
If you are or may be pregnant, please discuss the risks and benefits of this procedure with your doctor.
If you must cancel or reschedule your appointment, please call 612-871-1145 as soon as possible.

PREPARATION

To ensure a successful exam, please follow all instructions carefully. Failure to accurately and completely prepare for your exam may result in the need for an additional procedure and both procedures will be billed to your insurance.

Before your exam:

Fill out the Health History form to bring with you on the day of your appointment.

Purchase the following over-the-counter supplies at your local pharmacy:

• 2 - Fleet® enemas

The night before your exam:

• Stop eating solid foods at 11:45 pm.
• Clear liquids are okay to drink (examples: water, Gatorade, clear broth and apple juice).
• Do not drink red liquids or alcoholic beverages.

The day of your exam:

• Stop drinking clear liquids 2 hours before your exam
• You may take your usual medications with 4 oz. of water at least 2 hours prior to your procedure.

1 ½ hours before leaving for your exam:

• Rectally administer the first Fleet® enema.

1 hour before leaving for your exam:

• Rectally administer the second Fleet® enema.

When you leave for your exam:

• Bring a list of all of your current medications, including any allergy or over-the-counter medications.
• Bring a photo ID as well as up-to-date insurance information, such as your insurance card and any referral forms that might be required by your payer.
• Co-pays are required on the day of your appointment.

DESCRITPION OF POUCHOSCOPY

What is pouchoscopy?
Pouchoscopy is a procedure that allows your physician to examine the lining of your ileo-anal pouch for inflammation, abnormal growths or tissue. An ileo-anal pouch is a surgically created pouch to replace the colon and rectum. During a pouchoscopy, the doctor inserts a flexible tube called an endoscope into the anus and advances it slowly into the pouch. If abnormal tissue is found, the doctor may remove a sample for further examination or biopsy. Pain medication and/or sedatives are not generally needed for this exam.

What should I expect during pouchoscopy?

Plan to spend up to 1½ hours at the endoscopy center the day of your procedure. The exam itself takes from five to 15 minutes to complete.

Before the Exam:

• You will change into a gown and robe.
• You will be asked about your medical history, including family history of colon cancer.
• You will be given a consent form to sign.
• If sedation or medication will be used during the procedure, a nurse will insert an intravenous (IV) line into your hand or arm.

During the Exam:

• You will lie on your left side.
• The doctor will insert a flexible tube - called an endoscope- into your pouch and advance it slowly.
• You may have a feeling of pressure, bloating or mild cramping.
• The doctor will carefully examine the lining of your pouch for abnormal tissue or inflammation.
• If abnormal tissue is found, the doctor may take a tissue sample to biopsy. Tissue removal is painless.

What should I expect after a pouchoscopy?
• The doctor will talk with you about the initial results of your examination.
• You may have some mild cramping or bloating. This is normal and should resolve as you pass gas.
• You will be allowed to drive home after the procedure, unless sedation is used. If you received medication during the exam, you will not be able drive for the rest of the day.
• You may resume your normal diet and activities, unless otherwise directed by the physician.
• A nurse will provide you with complete discharge instructions before you leave the endoscopy center.
• Any tissue samples removed during the exam will be sent to a lab for evaluation. You and your referring physician will be notified of the results within 5 to 7 business days.

What are the possible complications pouchoscopy?

Although serious complications are rare, any medical procedure has the potential for risks. A nurse will review all potential risk warning signs with you before you leave the endoscopy center. Risks include:

• Perforation, or a tear through the lining of the ileo-anal pouch
• Bleeding from a biopsy site