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Endoscopy is a broad term that encompasses non-surgical procedures performed using a flexible tube (endoscope) with a lighted camera. Digestive health providers can view the lining of your GI tract either through the scope or on a video monitor. There are several types of endoscopic procedures used by gastroenterologists today.
Doctors often recommend endoscopy to evaluate:
Endoscopy can also be used to take a biopsy or to help treat some digestive conditions. In the colon, polyps can be removed through the endoscope to help prevent colon cancer.
Before the procedure, you'll receive instructions on preparation, which may involve fasting to ensure clear visibility of the area being examined.
When you arrive at our healthcare facility, you'll complete the necessary paperwork and discuss your medical history. After changing into a hospital gown, you'll be administered anesthesia or sedation depending on the procedure, which could range from local anesthesia to general anesthesia.
The endoscope is gently inserted through an orifice, such as the mouth for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (EGD) or the rectum for colonoscopy. This instrument enables real-time imaging of the internal area of interest. The examination may involve taking biopsies or tissue samples if any abnormalities are detected. The duration of the endoscopy varies but typically lasts from 15 minutes to an hour.
Following the procedure, you'll be monitored in a recovery area until the effects of any anesthesia or sedation wear off. While mild discomfort or bloating may be experienced, it generally resolves quickly. Our gastroenterologist at Concord, NC will discuss their findings with you, and if biopsies were taken, the results will be provided later.
The course you take to prepare for your endoscopy will depend on your gastroenterologist and the type of procedure, but in general, our patients should prepare to:
To view Northeast Digestive Health Center in Concord, North Carolina complete endoscopy prep instructions, click here.
If you're experiencing symptoms that suggest a problem in your digestive system, such as persistent abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or gastrointestinal bleeding, ur gastroenterologist in Concord, NC might suggest an endoscopy to investigate the issue and find a diagnosis.
In many cases, our doctors in NC perform endoscopy while the patient is under “conscious sedation”. You'll be administered anesthesia or sedation for an endoscopy depending on the specific procedure. Anesthesia may be local or general.
In many cases, our doctors in NC perform endoscopy while the patient is under “conscious sedation”. In this type of sedation, the patient is relaxed and comfortable, but awake and able to follow commands.
The duration of an endoscopy varies depending on the specific procedure. At our Concord, NC centers an upper GI procedure typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes, plus preparation time and recovery. A colonoscopy may take about 30 to 60 minutes.
Wear comfortable clothing that you can easily remove, as you will change into a hospital gown for the procedure.
Discomfort during an endoscopy is common, but it's usually not painful due to sedation and local anesthesia. Patients may experience a mild sore throat afterward.
After an endoscopy, start with clear liquids and gradually progress to soft, easily digestible foods, avoiding heavy or spicy meals initially to prevent discomfort.
Biopsies are not always taken during an endoscopy, but they may be performed if abnormal tissue is detected or for further evaluation.
Endoscopy is generally considered safe, with the vast majority of procedures being completed without any complications. While there are potential risks such as bleeding, infection, and perforation, these occur very infrequently. At our Concord, NC Center, we closely monitor you during and after the procedure to ensure your safety and well-being.
You may feel drowsy or have a mild sore throat after an endoscopy, but these effects usually resolve within a few hours. Some patients may experience bloating or discomfort in the abdomen, which typically improves with time.
Due to the effects of sedation, you will need someone else drive you home after an endoscopy.
No, it's typically advised to avoid drinking water for about 6 to 8 hours before an endoscopy to ensure a clear view of the digestive tract. Consult your Concord clinic gastroenterologist for more information regarding eating and drinking before an endoscopy.
You may feel drowsy or have a mild sore throat after an endoscopy, but these effects usually resolve within a few hours. Some patients may experience bloating or discomfort in the abdomen, which typically improves with time.
It’s advised to wait until the effects of sedation wear off, usually about 1-2 hours after the procedure, before eating or drinking anything after an endoscopy. Follow any specific dietary instructions provided by your gastroenterologist at our Concord, NC clinic.
