Preparing for Endoscopy Procedures

How to Prepare for an Endoscopy Procedure

If you have been scheduled for an upper GI procedure or colonoscopy, your physician will look directly into the upper and/or lower part of your digestive tract and intestines using a thin tube, which allows pictures of your GI tract to be transmitted onto a video screen. Both tests require special preparation to ensure the best possible results.

The purpose of these tests is to visualize your esophagus and stomach or large colon. Biopsies may be taken, which are painless, and polyps may be removed if medically necessary. You will be given specific discharge instructions to follow at home which include notifying your physician of extreme pain or significant bleeding and getting plenty of rest and relaxation.

Preparing for an upper GI endoscopy

• No food or drink after midnight the night before your exam
• If your exam is in the afternoon, drink only clear liquids in the morning
• No eating or drinking anything six hours before the exam
• You will be brought to an endoscopy suite on the same cart where your procedure will be performed
• Your throat may be numbed with a spray
• You will be given medication through your IV to sedate you
• You will swallow a tube that is thinner than most pieces of food (the tube will not affect your breathing)

Preparing for a colonoscopy

• Follow the diet and bowel prep instructions exactly to ensure your rectum and colon are empty (if they are not, you may have to reschedule the test)
• You will be brought to an endoscopy suite on the same cart where your procedure will be performed
• A tube will be inserted through your rectum