A colonoscopy is both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the colon for inflammation, polyps or early signs of cancer. During the same session, the doctor may also perform procedures such as polyp removal, biopsies or stent placement when required.
Because a colonoscopy can involve both assessment and treatment, the specialist you choose plays an important role in how smoothly the procedure is carried out and how accurately the findings are interpreted. Selecting a doctor with the right training and experience helps support both safety and clarity, particularly when treatment decisions need to be made on the spot. In this article, we look at the different types of doctors who perform colonoscopies and what sets them apart; keep reading to find out how to choose the most suitable specialist for your needs.
Colorectal Surgeons: The Specialists for Colonoscopy
Colonoscopies are commonly performed by colorectal surgeons, who specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the colon, rectum and anus. Their work often involves managing polyps, colorectal cancer, diverticular disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), many of which require direct visual assessment of the bowel. As a result, colonoscopy forms a routine and essential part of their clinical practice.
You may be referred to a colorectal surgeon when a colonoscopy requires a more detailed or complex evaluation. Their specialised training supports careful assessment in several key situations:
- Polyp Detection and Removal: Colorectal surgeons are trained to identify and remove polyps during the same procedure when appropriate.
- Colorectal Cancer Evaluation: Colonoscopy allows close inspection of suspicious areas and the collection of tissue samples for further analysis.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): They assess inflammation patterns and obtain targeted biopsies to guide ongoing management.
In addition to endoscopic expertise, colorectal surgeons are trained in surgical techniques. This becomes particularly valuable if larger polyps, cancerous growths or complex findings are discovered during the colonoscopy. Should surgical intervention be required, they are well equipped to manage the next steps without delay, allowing a smoother transition from diagnosis to treatment.
Other Specialists Qualified to Perform Colonoscopies
While colorectal surgeons frequently perform colonoscopies, they are not the only specialists trained to do so. Depending on your symptoms, medical history and where the procedure is carried out, other doctors may also be involved.
Gastroenterologists
Gastroenterologists focus on conditions affecting the digestive system, including the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, liver and pancreas. Colonoscopy is a core part of their practice and is commonly used to investigate symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, unexplained abdominal pain or iron deficiency.
If you are seeing a gastroenterologist, they may perform your colonoscopy to detect polyps, inflammation or other abnormalities, and take biopsies to help guide the management of gastrointestinal conditions.
General Surgeons
General surgeons receive broad-based surgical training that usually includes endoscopy and colonoscopy. They may also perform a colonoscopy as part of the evaluation before or after abdominal or colorectal surgery, helping to clarify the diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment.
How to Choose the Right Specialist for Your Colonoscopy
Choosing a specialist for your colonoscopy can shape your overall experience, from preparation to follow-up care. Understanding what to look for can help you feel more confident and informed when making a decision.
Consider the Nature of Your Condition
Start by thinking about why the colonoscopy has been recommended. For routine colorectal cancer screening or diagnostic evaluation of symptoms such as bleeding or altered bowel habits, both gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons commonly perform the procedure.
However, if treatment is likely to be needed during or after the colonoscopy—such as removal of larger polyps or evaluation of known colorectal disease—you may be referred to a colorectal surgeon. This ensures continuity of care should further intervention be required.
Look at the Doctor’s Experience
A specialist’s background can give you a clearer sense of their familiarity with colorectal conditions and endoscopic procedures. You may find it helpful to consider:
- Training Pathway:Whether the doctor trained in gastroenterology, general surgery or colorectal surgery
- Clinical Experience:How often they perform colonoscopies and whether they regularly manage conditions similar to yours
- Quality Standards:Participation in recognised endoscopy quality assurance programmes, where applicable
Assess the Facility and Available Resources
The environment in which your colonoscopy is performed also matters. As you explore your options, you may wish to consider:
- Dedicated Endoscopy Suites:These spaces are designed specifically for procedures like colonoscopy and can support a well-organised workflow.
- Support Services:Access to pathology, imaging and appropriate sedation or anaesthesia helps ensure that findings are evaluated accurately and safely.
- Clear Preparation and Follow-up Processes:Clinics that provide detailed guidance on bowel prep, safety measures and post-procedure care can help you feel more prepared and informed.
By reviewing these factors together, you can choose a specialist and a facility that align with your clinical needs and provide a smooth, well-supported colonoscopy experience.
Take the Next Step Towards Confident Colon Care
At our clinic, colorectal specialist Dr Chew Min Hoe brings more than 20 years of experience from his years in the public healthcare sector, as well as his current private practice in Singapore. Over the course of his career, he has developed extensive expertise in performing colonoscopies, diagnosing colorectal conditions and providing personalised care tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you are attending a routine screening or seeking clarity for specific digestive concerns, you can expect a thorough, careful and patient-focused approach at every stage of your consultation.
To schedule a colonoscopy, please contact our clinic at +65 6518 4688 (Orchard) or +65 6518 4868 (Farrer Park).