During your endoscopy

You may have a local anesthetic sprayed in your throat before the test begins, and you will be given medication through a vein to help you relax during the examination. You will be placed on your side or back in a comfortable position while the endoscope is gently passed through your mouth into your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

 

Air is introduced into the stomach or colon during the procedure to allow for a better view of the lining. An upper endoscopy typically lasts 7 to 15 minutes, and a colonoscopy 30 to 60 minutes.

 

Remember that it is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure, meaning that if any lesion is identified, it will be removed during the same procedure.

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These procedures are generally safe when performed by surgeons with specialized training and experience in endoscopic surgery. Complications are rare, but they can occur. These include bleeding from the biopsy or polypectomy site, or tearing or perforation. Blood transfusions are rarely required. A reaction to the sedatives may occur.

 

It is important to recognize the early signs of possible complications such as worsening sore throat, chest pains, severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, or rectal bleeding of more than half a cup.

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The endoscope does not interfere with your breathing. Most patients fall asleep during the procedure; a few find it only slightly uncomfortable.