Frequently Asked Questions about Endoscopy Procedures
Advanced endoscopy procedures are revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Here are the answers to questions we frequently hear from patients at Great South Bay Endoscopy:
Most Common Question
Q: How long does the procedure take?
A: On average, a colonoscopy takes approximately 15-20 minutes and the average EGD (upper endoscopy, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy) takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. Plan to be at our facility for 1 ½ to 2 hours. Slight fluctuations in the schedule can sometimes occur and cause your stay may be extended. Occasionally, situations may arise that are out of our control and we appreciate your patience and understanding.
Q: How is my diabetes affected by a clear liquid diet? Any special suggestions for a diabetic patient?
A: If you are required to be on a clear liquid diet for your procedure, and you have diabetic medication to take, then you must consumer liquids with calories. For clear liquid prep day, please drink regular soda, not diet. Please use regular Jell-O, not sugar-free. Use fruit juices; pulp free, to get more calories. Test your blood glucose often during your pre-procedure preparation. On the day of your procedure, please notify our facility if your blood glucose is below 90 or above 200. Do not take your diabetic medication the day of your procedure.
Q: If I start feeling ill or extremely restless during my colonoscopy prep, which symptoms require a call to my doctor’s office? Which symptoms are typical?
A: It is normal to feel very “full” or “bloated” during your prep. Chills are common when drinking your colon prep; nausea and vomiting are also possible side effects. If you experience vomiting in the early stages of your preparation, or you simply cannot drink any more solution, stop drinking for 30 minutes, then resume. If the vomiting continues, call your GI physician. If you have extreme restlessness, or your bowel returns are not clear or pale yellow after drinking the entire solution, please call your GI physician’s office.
Q: Can I Use chewing gum, hard candy or chewing tobacco on my procedure day?
A: No. These items are not permitted in the five (5) hours prior to a sedated procedure. They have the ability to increase saliva and gastric secretions. Serious medical complications are associated with patients who do not have an empty stomach. The use of these items will cause a delay or cancellation of your procedure.
Q: After my procedure, will I be able to return to work or school?
A: Returning to work or school after a sedated procedure is not recommended. Activities should be limited. Operating a motor vehicle or power equipment is not permitted for 12 hours following the procedure. Discharge instructions will be provided to you. Please read them carefully. Most individuals are able to resume normal activities the following day.
Q: Do I take my blood pressure or heart medications the day of the procedure?
A: Take these medications as prescribed with a small sip of water unless instructed otherwise by your GI physician’s office.
Q: What if I have my menstrual cycle?
A: Having your menstrual cycle will not affect your procedure. Use your preferred feminine products as normal.
Q: What type of anesthesia do you use, and will it make me sick?
A: We use a drug called Propofol, which is a short acting, IV anesthetic. There are very few side effects. It has anti-nausea properties so there is a very low incidence of nausea compared to other agents. Propofol is commonly used for short procedures because of its ability to produce loss of awareness and its short recovery period.
Q: Can I mix anything with my magnesium citrate?
A: You can mix any clear liquid with the magnesium citrate. If you are a diabetic patient or have kidney failure, you should not be using this particular prep.
Q: Can I eat or drink after I finish drinking my bowel cleansing prep?
A: If you prep in the morning you may have nothing by mouth after the completion of your bowel cleansing prep. However, if you prep the evening prior, you may have clear liquids the morning of your procedure but nothing five (50 hours before your scheduled appointment.