If you’re over 45, have a family history of colorectal cancer, or are experiencing unexplained digestive symptoms, your doctor may have recommended a colonoscopy. But in Montreal, you don’t have to wait months for a public healthcare appointment. At Cabinet Médical Mark Reimer we offer private colonoscopies with no referral required, no long waitlists, and same-day results—so you can get the answers you need, fast.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What a colonoscopy is and why it’s important
- How to prepare for your procedure in Montreal
- What to expect during and after the exam
- Why choosing a private clinic means faster, more comfortable care
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a safe, minimally invasive procedure that allows a general surgeon to examine the large intestine (colon) and rectum using a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope. This tube is equipped with a high-definition camera and light, enabling the doctor to:
- Detect polyps, tumors, or early signs of colorectal cancer
- Identify inflammation, ulcers, or bleeding
- Diagnose conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or diverticulosis
- Remove polyps or abnormal tissue during the procedure (if needed)
Why Would You Need a Colonoscopy?
Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy if you:
- Are 45+ years old (regular screening reduces colorectal cancer risk by up to 90%)
- Have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Experience unexplained abdominal pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits
- Notice blood in your stool or unexplained weight loss
- Have chronic diarrhea or constipation
Colonoscopies are gold standard for colorectal cancer screening and can prevent cancer by removing precancerous polyps before they become malignant.
Why Choose a Private Colonoscopy Clinic in Montreal?
In Quebec’s public system, wait times for colonoscopies can be 6–12 months or longer. At Cabinet Médical Mark Reimer, we offer:
✔ No referral required – Book directly, even without a doctor’s referral.
✔ No waitlists – Get an appointment within days, not months.
✔ Same-day results – Discuss findings immediately after the procedure.
✔ Expert specialists – Dr. Reimer has 20+ years of experience and have performed over 20,000 procedures.
✔ Comfortable, modern facilities – Designed for privacy, safety, and relaxation to ease anxiety.
How to Prepare for Your Colonoscopy in Montreal
Proper preparation is key to a successful colonoscopy. Here’s what you need to know:
Dietary Restrictions
- 3 days before: Start a low-fiber diet (avoid nuts, seeds, whole grains, raw fruits/vegetables).
- 1 day before: Clear liquid diet only (water, broth, apple juice, tea/coffee without milk, gelatin).
- Avoid: Red or purple liquids (they can look like blood in the colon).
Bowel Preparation (The Most Important Step!)
- You’ll receive instructions for a bowel-cleansing solution (e.g., PEG-3350 or sodium picosulfate) to drink the day before your procedure.
- This ensures your colon is completely clean so the doctor can see clearly.
- Follow the instructions exactly—poor prep may require rescheduling
Medication Adjustments
- Blood thinners (e.g., Xarelto, Pradaxa, Eliquis): Stop 3–5 days before (consult your doctor first).
- Diabetes or blood pressure medications: Ask your doctor if you need to adjust the timing.
- Iron supplements: Stop 1 week before (they can cause dark stools).
Transportation & Sedation
- Sedation is standard for colonoscopies to ensure comfort.
- You cannot drive for 24 hours after sedation. Arrange for a friend, family member to take you home
What to Expect During the Colonoscopy Procedure
Before the Procedure
- Arrive at our Montreal clinic 30–60 minutes early to check in.
- You’ll change into a medical gown and meet with medical team to review your history.
- An IV will be inserted for sedation.
During the Procedure
- The colonoscopy itself takes 20–40 minutes.
- You’ll lie on your left side on a comfortable exam stretcher.
- The doctor will gently insert the colonoscope through your rectum and advance it along your colon.
- Air and water are used to inflate your colon for better visibility (this may cause mild bloating).
- If polyps or abnormal tissue are found, they will be removed or biopsied for testing.
After the Procedure
- You’ll rest in our recovery room for 30–60 minutes while the sedation wears off.
- You`ll be told the initial findings right away.
- If biopsies or polyps were removed, results typically take 4–6 weeks for the lab analysis.
- You can eat and drink normally once fully awake, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- Mild bloating or gas is normal and should resolve within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colonoscopy in Montreal
Is a Colonoscopy Painful?
No. With sedation, most patients sleep through the entire procedure and wake up with no memory of it. You may feel mild pressure or bloating, but pain is rare, and if it happens, the procedure can always be stopped or more sedation given, as is safe. Many people watch their colonoscopy and find it interesting to see what they look like on the inside!
Are There Any Risks?
Colonoscopy is safe, but as with any medical procedure, there are rare risks, including:
- Bleeding (if polyps are removed)
- Perforation (a tear in the colon lining, occurring in <1 in 3,000 cases)
- Incomplete procedure (if the colon is too narrow or twisty to safely get all the way to the end)
- Reaction to sedation (allergic reactions are uncommon)
Our clinic follows detailed safety protocols to minimize these risks.
Does Insurance Cover Private Colonoscopy in Montreal?
- Private insurance (e.g., through your employer) often covers colonoscopy procedures. Check with your provider for details.
- RAMQ (Quebec’s public health insurance) does not cover private colonoscopies, but many patients choose private clinics for faster access and convenience.
How Much Does a Private Colonoscopy Cost in Montreal?
Prices vary by clinic, but at Cabinet Médical Mark Reimer, we offer competitive, transparent pricing with no hidden fees. For example, some clinics in Montreal charge less for a colonoscopy, but if you add in extra costs for consultation, biopsies, and polyps, the final price can be much higher. We offer an all-inclusive price. When you buy a car, do you always buy the cheapest one? Or, are there other things that matter too? Your health is more valuable than a car.
Book Your Private Colonoscopy in Montreal Today
If you’re due for a colorectal cancer screening or experiencing digestive symptoms, don’t wait. At Cabinet Médical Mark Reimer, we provide:
Fast access – No long waitlists
No referral needed – Book directly
Expert general surgeon – 20+ years of experience
Same-day results – No uncertainty
Ready to take the next step?
- Book your colonoscopy online
- Call us at 514.316.8744
- Visit us at the RocklandMD facility, 100 Rockland Rd, Suite 110-1, Montreal
Final Thoughts
Your digestive health is too important to delay. With private colonoscopy in Montreal, you can get peace of mind, early detection, and expert care—without the wait. Whether you’re due for a routine screening or investigating symptoms, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Have questions? Contact us directly. We’re happy to help!