An endoscopy is a medical procedure that allows healthcare providers to examine the inside of the body using a flexible tube equipped with a camera. This minimally invasive technique provides a visual inspection of internal organs, often used to diagnose or treat conditions within the digestive tract. Understanding the typical time commitment for an endoscopy involves more than just the procedure itself, encompassing preparation, the active examination, and recovery periods.
The Procedure Itself
The actual time an endoscope is inside the body varies depending on the type of endoscopy performed. An upper endoscopy, also known as an EGD, examines the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). This procedure typically takes about 10 to 30 minutes to complete.
A colonoscopy involves examining the entire large intestine and rectum. This procedure generally takes longer than an EGD, with typical durations ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. These durations represent the active time the physician is using the scope for examination or intervention.
Factors Influencing Duration
Factors influence active endoscopy procedure time. Discovering abnormalities lengthens the time. For instance, polyp removal (polypectomy), tissue biopsies, or addressing active bleeding add minutes to the procedure.
Anatomical variations or adhesions may require more careful navigation, potentially increasing procedure time. Patient cooperation and sedation tolerance also affect the examination’s smoothness and speed, as a relaxed patient allows for a quicker procedure.
Your Full Visit
While the endoscopy procedure itself is relatively brief, the total time spent at the clinic or hospital on the day of your appointment is considerably longer. Patients should plan for a total visit duration of approximately two to four hours. This extended period accounts for various stages beyond the active scoping time.
The initial phase involves check-in and preparation, which typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes. During this time, paperwork is completed, an intravenous (IV) line is usually inserted, and pre-procedure briefings occur.
Following the procedure, patients are moved to a recovery room, where they are monitored as the sedation wears off. This recovery period can last from 30 to 90 minutes. The final discharge process, including receiving post-procedure instructions and arranging transport, concludes the visit.
Preparing For and Recovering From an Endoscopy
Proper preparation is essential for a successful endoscopy. Upper endoscopy requires fasting: no solid food for at least eight hours and no liquids for four hours prior. Colonoscopies require extensive bowel preparation, often a clear liquid diet and laxatives the day before. It is important to discuss all medications with your doctor, as some, like blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped.
After the endoscopy, sedation causes grogginess and impaired judgment for up to 24 hours. Therefore, someone must drive you home, and you should avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions for the rest of the day.
Mild discomforts like a sore throat, gas, bloating, or cramping are common but typically subside within a day or two. You can generally resume light activities the same day and return to your normal routine the following day. However, if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fever, or significant bleeding, contact your healthcare provider immediately.