###1: Colonoscopy Through a Stoma (Transstomal Colonoscopy)
###3: This procedure uses a colonoscope passed through an abdominal stoma to examine the inside of the colon. It may be performed to evaluate bleeding, inflammation, polyps, or other changes when the colon cannot be examined through the usual route.
["###4: A transstomal colonoscopy allows direct examination of the colon through an existing stoma."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 28034-7
- Short code
- Colonoscopy.thru Stoma Study
- Synonyms
- Colonoscopy.thru Stoma Study
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- colonoscopy-thru-stoma
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
###5: What the procedure examines
###6: The colonoscope has a small camera and instruments that transmit images to a monitor. The clinician can inspect the colon lining, take tissue samples when needed, and sometimes remove small polyps.
###7: Why it is performed
###8: It may be recommended for people with an ileostomy or colostomy who have symptoms such as rectal bleeding, unexplained abdominal changes, or suspected colon disease. The reason depends on the location of the stoma and the clinical question being evaluated.
###9: Preparation
###10: Preparation may differ from a standard colonoscopy because the route of entry is different. The care team will provide specific instructions about dietary changes, bowel preparation, medications, and managing stoma output. Follow the instructions exactly and ask the clinician about medicines that should be adjusted.
###11: Recovery and results
###11: Sedation or anesthesia may be used. Afterward, temporary abdominal cramping, gas, or tenderness can occur. Contact the care team for persistent or worsening pain, heavy bleeding, fever, dizziness, or a major change in stoma output. Written results are generally provided after the procedure.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
###13: Clinical significance: Transstomal colonoscopy can identify inflammation, ulcers, polyps, bleeding sources, or other abnormalities that may help guide treatment. The findings should be interpreted together with symptoms, examination findings, and any prior pathology because an apparently normal examination does not exclude every colonic condition.
Short name
###2: Transstomal colonoscopy
Frequently asked questions
###14: Is this the same as a standard colonoscopy?
###16: Why might my clinician choose this route?
###18: Will I need bowel preparation and sedation?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy