Carbon dioxide insufflation during colonoscopy significantly reduces discomfort (pain, bloating and flatulence) after the procedure. So far, it has not been studied in inflammatory bowel disease patients. The study was designed to evaluate discomfort after the carbon dioxide insufflation colonoscopy in comparison to standard air insufflation colonoscopy.

Carbon dioxide insufflation during colonoscopy significantly reduces discomfort (pain, bloating and flatulence) during up to 24 hours after the procedure. So far, it has not been studied in inflammatory bowel disease patients who represent specific patient population indicated for colonoscopy. They are characterized by younger age, structural changes of the colon including intestinal resections and need for repeated and frequently difficult procedures.The study was designed to evaluate discomfort during 24 hours after the carbon dioxide insufflation colonoscopy in comparison to standard air insufflation colonoscopy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• known diagnosis of Crohn´s disease and ulcerative colitis
• indication for diagnostic colonoscopy
• informed consent
• unsedated or minimally sedated procedure (< 3 mg of midazolam)

Exclusion Criteria:

• planned incomplete or therapeutic procedure
• deep sedation or general anesthesia
• intestinal resection longer than ileocecal resection
• isolated gastroduodenal or jejunal location of Crohn´s disease (L4)
• ulcerative proctitis (E1)