An endoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera (endoscope) to visualize the inside of the body’s hollow organs. The most common procedures examine the digestive tract. An upper endoscopy (EGD) checks the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine, while a colonoscopy examines the large intestine and rectum. Although the scope insertion is brief, the patient’s full time commitment involves several days of preparation and a multi-hour visit to the medical facility.
Preparation Timeline
The time commitment for an endoscopy begins well before the appointment day with necessary dietary and medication adjustments. For an upper endoscopy (EGD), the primary instruction is to fast, meaning no solid food for six to eight hours before the procedure. This ensures the stomach is completely empty, as neglecting fasting risks aspirating stomach contents during the procedure. Some facilities may allow clear liquids up to two to four hours before the scheduled time.
A colonoscopy requires a more extensive preparation timeline, often starting a full day or two beforehand. This involves a low-fiber diet, followed by a clear liquid diet for at least 24 hours. The main component is a prescribed laxative solution, or “bowel prep,” designed to completely cleanse the colon of residual stool. This cleansing is necessary because the doctor needs a clear view of the colon lining to effectively detect and remove polyps.
In the days leading up to either procedure, patients must often stop taking certain medications. These include blood thinners, iron supplements, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These adjustments minimize the risk of bleeding if a biopsy is taken or a polyp is removed during the examination. Following the specific instructions is crucial, as an inadequately prepared digestive tract often results in the procedure being cancelled.
The Appointment Day Experience
On the day of the procedure, the total time commitment at the facility, from arrival to discharge, is typically between two and four hours. The first segment involves the check-in process, including paperwork and changing into a gown. A nurse performs routine checks of blood pressure and heart rate. This initial phase generally takes between 15 and 30 minutes before the patient moves to the pre-procedure area.
Once settled, the patient meets with the gastroenterologist and the anesthesia provider to review the procedure and answer questions. An intravenous (IV) line is placed to administer sedative medication, keeping the patient comfortable throughout the procedure. This preparation and monitoring phase usually requires an additional 30 to 45 minutes before the patient is moved into the procedure room.
The actual time spent with the endoscope inside the body is the shortest part of the appointment day. An upper endoscopy (EGD) is usually faster, lasting only 10 to 30 minutes, as it examines a shorter segment of the upper digestive tract. A colonoscopy takes slightly longer, typically ranging from 30 to 60 minutes, because the physician navigates the entire large intestine. If both procedures are performed during the same visit, the combined scope time averages between 60 and 90 minutes.
After the procedure, the patient is transferred to a recovery area for monitoring as the effects of the sedation wear off. This immediate recovery period is the longest time block spent at the facility, often lasting one to two hours. The patient must be awake, alert, and meet all discharge criteria. During this time, the medical staff ensures vital signs are stable and the patient can safely tolerate small sips of water.
Post-Procedure Recovery and Results
Leaving the facility marks the beginning of the post-procedure recovery period, which includes mandatory restrictions for the remainder of the day. Since sedation is used, a responsible adult must drive the patient home, as the medication impairs judgment and coordination. For a full 24 hours after receiving sedation, patients are prohibited from:
- Driving.
- Operating heavy machinery.
- Consuming alcohol.
- Making any significant legal or financial decisions.
Physically, most patients feel largely recovered within 24 hours of the procedure. Minor side effects may include mild throat soreness after an EGD, or temporary bloating and cramping after a colonoscopy due to the air used during the examination. These symptoms typically resolve quickly. Most individuals are able to resume their normal work and activity schedule the day after the procedure.
The timeline for receiving diagnostic information varies depending on the findings during the procedure. The gastroenterologist can often share preliminary results immediately after the patient wakes up from sedation. If tissue samples (biopsies) or polyps were removed, those samples must be sent to a pathology lab for detailed analysis. The final pathology report, which confirms the diagnosis, typically takes between three and ten business days to be processed and delivered.