FAQ’s
Overall endoscopy is very safe with low complication rate, however like any procedure there are potential complications that you should be aware of, these include, but are not limited to infection, bleeding, perforation and potential complications from the anesthetic agents. Furthermore, certain procedures such as ERCP may have other complications such as acute pancreatitis. These risks will be explained to you before the procedure, and you will be required to sign a written consent prior to the procedure. Please do not hesitate to ask your physician should you have any questions.
Your physician will direct you on which medications to take and when to take them.
A colonoscopy usually does not exceed 30 minutes. The time can vary depending on the number of biopsies taken and number and size of polyps.
An EGD usually does not exceed 10-15 minutes, EUS usually does not exceed 30-40 minutes, however some complicated EUS procedures can take longer. ERCP time usually does not exceed 40 minutes, however very difficult cases can take longer.
No. The medications that you are given during your procedure will make you sleepy. You will need to have an adult with you to drive you home.
You will be given medication either by a nurse under physician supervision or an anesthesiologist to make you sleepy and comfortable during the procedure.
Bring your current list of medications with dosage directions, your list of allergies and your Insurance or Medicare card. Please leave all valuables at home and be sure to dress comfortably.
The key to a successful and safe colonoscopy is good bowl preparation. It is imperative that you closely follow the instructions regarding the bowl prep. You will need to be a on a clear liquid diet the day prior to your colonoscopy. There are several bowl preparations that can be used, each bowl prep has specific instructions that will be discussed with you at the time when you schedule your colonoscopy.
Two most commonly used preps at our practice include MoviPrep® and Prepopik™
You can find instructions on how to take MoviPrep® at their website:
http://moviprep.salix.com/about-moviprep/taking-moviprep
or for assistance you can call TOLL-FREE from 5:00 PM – 9:00 AM 1-855-4MOVIRX (1-855-466-8479).
You can find instructions for Prepopik™ at the their website:
http://www.prepopik.com/how_to_take_prepopik.html
Typically you should have nothing to eat or drink, including water, for 8 hours before the examination. Furthermore, you may be given a cleansing bowl prep prior to the procedure depending which part of the small bowl is examined.
You are required to not eat any solids for at least 8 hours prior to procedure and clear liquid at least 4 hours prior to your procedure.