Are you up for an endoscopy? Your gastroenterologist will explain the procedure to you, but you may still have many queries. Many patients wonder, how long does an endoscopy take? We will talk about it in this blog, along with other factors related to the procedure.
What is an Endoscopy?
Well, let us go over what an endoscopy actually is. It is a procedure that involves examining the structures inside your body closely. To do so, the examiner inserts an endoscope, which is a long, thin tube, inside your body until it reaches the area that requires checking. Usually, endoscopes have a light and a special camera at the end, and it captures the images or videos of the affected area. Your provider will be able to see them on the screen!
The provider might insert operating instruments to remove tissue or perform surgery during the endoscopy if needed.
How Long Does an Endoscopy Take, Start to Finish?
So, how long does an endoscopy take?
Your doctor will suggest an endoscopy if you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms. Generally, an endoscopy takes seven to ten minutes to complete, but it can take between 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the type of endoscopy. Patients usually go home on the day their endoscopy is scheduled, but some procedures might require an overnight stay at the hospital.
The patient receives general anesthesia, but some get local anesthesia and a sedative to help them relax during the endoscopy. You will need some recovery time afterward and make sure you plan on having someone get you home following the procedure.
Endoscopy Procedure
Once you are under anesthesia, the gastroenterologist will insert a thin, flexible tube that has a camera. This allows them to take a look at your upper GI tract, examining the stomach, esophagus, and part of the small intestine. By doing so, the doctor will gather information about your condition and it may even allow them to provide you treatment during the procedure.
They will close any incisions made during your endoscopy!
After the endoscopy, you may feel groggy due to the anesthesia. You can rest for the remaining day and refrain from using any heavy machinery. Your healthcare provider will tell you what to expect during recovery.
Endoscopy Side Effects
The side effects of endoscopy depend on the type of procedure you had, but they tend to improve within the first two days. It is possible that you will feel hoarse or experience a mild sore throat if the scope goes into your throat. Your healthcare provider will tell you how to manage the discomfort, and they might prescribe medications if needed.
Final Takeaway
If you have an endoscopy coming up, the actual procedure might take up to 10 minutes but you can expect it to last between 30 minutes to two hours, depending on different factors. Ask your gastroenterologist if you have any questions!
Gastroenterology is your trusted provider for quality care. You can consult us at (281) 357-1977.