Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the procedure take, and how long will I be in your facility?
An endoscopy takes between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on what is found, (i.e., multiple polyps that can be removed during the exam). Total time in our facility will be between 2 – 4 hours. This will allow enough time for the registration process, the pre-operative nurse assessment, your procedure, the post-operative nurse assessment and the doctor speaking with you and/or with your driver prior to discharge. During the pre-operative nurse assessment, the nurse will go over your medical history and place an IV in your vein in order for the Physician or Anesthesiology Staff to administer medication that will make you sleepy during the procedure and you will be monitored in the recovery area for at least 30 minutes after the procedure.
Will I be asleep for the procedure?
You may request no medication for the exam; however, you may experience some discomfort or cramping due to air being put into your stomach or intestine. Most patients receive medication so that they can fall asleep shortly after receiving it. Your physician or a Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)will give you an intravenous medication to make you feel relaxed. Almost all people fall asleep prior to starting the procedure and do not remember the procedure when they awaken. The physician will put air into your colon (for colonoscopy) or stomach (upper endoscopy) to help visualize the lining and this sometimes causes a cramping or bloated sensation. Passing this air during and following the exam will relieve any discomfort.
Will I talk with the physician after the procedure?
Yes. Your physician will go over your procedure with you and you will be provided with printed discharge instructions that also includes an overview of the findings from your procedure.
How will I feel after the procedure?
You may feel back to normal, euphoric, or very sleepy. Most patients report that they go home and take a nap and resume regular activities the next day.
The sedation used during your exam impairs judgment, memory, and equilibrium. We cannot perform this procedure unless we know that you will arrive home safely, so please bring a friend or family member with you.
- You will not be permitted to drive, operate machinery, make critical decisions, drink alcoholic beverages, or do activities that require coordination or balance for 24 hours.
- If you had a colonoscopy, you may not have a normal bowel movement for 1-3 days because of the colonoscopy prep. This is what we expect to happen after your colonoscopy preparation. Because air was put into your colon during the procedure, you may experience cramping, bloating and expelling large amounts of air from your rectum. This is normal for the first 24 hours.
- If you had an Upper Endoscopy (EGD), you may experience a sore throat for 24 to 48 hours. Because air was put into your stomach during the procedure, you may experience some belching.
Except for these restrictions, you may resume your normal diet unless directed otherwise by your physician. Your physician may give you additional instructions at the time of discharge.
Problems after the Procedure
While every caution is taken to prevent any problems, complications can occur and sometimes these may not become evident for several hours. If, in the next 24 hours you experience any of the following, such as prolonged or severe abdominal discomfort, fever, tenderness or significant bleeding, you must contact your physician immediately at the number provided on your written Discharge Instructions. AFTER HOURS If for any reason you are unable to reach the doctor (within 15 minutes for serious problems), go to the nearest Emergency Room.
