This topic is about a mix-up between a colonoscopy and an ileostomy scope that led to a serious complication. A woman with an ileostomy was mistakenly scheduled for a colonoscopy, which is not appropriate since she no longer had a colon. The error was caught late, and the procedure ended up causing a laceration to her stoma. This situation highlights the importance of clear communication and self-advocacy in medical settings. Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Self-advocacy is critical:
- Always confirm the exact procedure, route of entry, and required preparation with your healthcare providers. Don't assume they are fully aware of your specific medical situation.
- Review all prescriptions and remind providers that extended-release tablets may not be suitable for those with an ileostomy, as they can pass through undigested.

2. Communication before procedures:
- If you receive a bowel-prep solution and you have no colon, contact the endoscopy or radiology unit immediately to clarify your situation.
- Ensure that the consent form and scheduling specify "ileoscopy through stoma" rather than a colonoscopy.

3. Ileostomy (stoma) scopes can be safe and routine:
- Many people undergo annual ileoscopies for conditions like FAP, with the scope inserted no farther than about 24 inches, typically without sedation or pain.
- The usual preparation involves fasting for about 5 hours, and a full oral bowel prep is not necessary.

4. Risk profile:
- There is a small risk of perforation with any endoscopy, but experienced centers report low complication rates similar to other scopes.
- It is crucial to have skilled operators familiar with ostomies to avoid complications like lacerating the stoma.

5. Alternative surveillance routes:
- For those with only a rectal stump, a flexible sigmoidoscopy via the rectum is standard, not a full colonoscopy.
- An upper GI endoscopy, which is done through the mouth, only accesses the proximal small bowel and is not a substitute for distal ileoscopy when surveillance of the distal small bowel is needed.

6. General reminder:
- Sharing experiences of medical errors can help the ostomy community learn and prevent similar issues in the future.