We will do everything possible to make your exam as safe, pleasant, and comfortable as we can. Please arrive at the endoscopy center at least one hour before your scheduled exam time. This allows our nurses and anesthesia providers to review everything with you in detail and discuss your health and medical history, ensuring your safety. They will also answer any questions you may have. An IV will be placed in a vein in your arm to administer fluids and medications during the procedure.
You will speak with Dr. Havranek, who will address any questions you have before the exam. Then, you will receive medications through the IV to help you relax and sleep during the procedure. You will be alert enough to breathe on your own but sleepy enough to feel comfortable. Once you fall asleep, we will insert the scope and examine your entire colon for abnormalities, taking biopsies or removing polyps as needed. This process takes about 20-30 minutes.
You will then be taken to the recovery room, where a different group of nurses will monitor you closely until you are fully awake. Dr. Havranek will review your exam results with you before you leave the endoscopy center that day, and copies will be sent to your doctor. Although you will be awake before you leave, it is important that you bring a friend or relative who can safely drive you home. You should take this day off work and will probably want to relax and rest for the rest of the day. The day after your exam, you can return to full activity.
