Question:
Can you have a colonoscopy after WLS?

My father died 5 years ago because of colon cancer and undergo a colonoscopy every 5 years as a cautionary measure. Would having WLS prevent this procedure in the future?    — Kelly B. (posted on June 17, 2000)

June 18, 2000
You should ask your surgeon about this or a gastroenterologiest. I've had several abdominal surgeries (hysterectomy, kidney removal and a lap RNY) and when I needed a colonoscopy my GI told me it would be unlikely he would be able to be successful with a colonoscoy because scar tissue due to the hysterectomy. He said most of the time he can't get the scope in far enough once a woman has had a hysterectomy. He recommended a barium enema instead. Anyway, I suggest you discuss this with your GI doctor and find out his recommendation and thoughts or what the alternatives would be or whether there would be any limitations due to weight loss surgery.
   — Jennifer L.

March 3, 2001
Just for the record, I had a hysterectomy 5 years ago, then had colonscopy 2 mos. ago - no problem. However, while the probe in the colon and part of large intestine might night pose an issue, the gallon of stuff you drink the night before to clear you out, might be rough. Haven't had my RNY yet, but am having endoscopy this week. Will ask gastroenterologist about this.
   — danirat