Pouchoscopy is an endoscopic examination of the pouch (a sac formed from loops of the small intestine in patients who have undergone surgical removal of the colon), including imaging of the pouch-anal anastomosis and anal canal.

Pouchoscopy is a method used to diagnose and/or treat diseases associated with the pouch. A flexible thin device (endoscope) inserted through the rectum into the pouch allows direct visual examination of the mucosa, take samples for further examination, or perform therapeutic procedures (e.g., treatment of bleeding, removal of abnormal tissue, tumor reduction, clearing and/or widening of a narrowed section of the intestine using dilation devices, etc.).

Preparation for the examination:

• Using a saline enema, which is administered immediately before the examination itself. The enema is available over the counter and can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription.
• There are no restrictions on food and drink.
• Your doctor will inform you of any restrictions (diet, physical exertion) immediately after the examination.