Upper Endoscopy Questions

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What you need to know if you're scheduled for an upper endoscopy.

  • Will I need pre-procedure testing?
    In most cases no testing is needed. We will need to know any allergies you have and the reaction, medications and herbal drugs that you take, your previous surgical history, your medical history and any family medical history.
  • What do I need to do before my procedure?
    You must make arrangements for a responsible adult to take you home and to stay with you for several hours after the procedure. We will need to verify this information in ...
  • What is an Upper Endoscopy (EGD)?
    General Information: An upper endoscopy is also known as an EGD (Esophagog astroduodenoscopy). This procedure uses a fiber optic instrument that is placed through the mouth into the stomach ...
  • What happens when I arrive at the center?
    We will have you arrive between 30 and 45 minutes before the scheduled time of your procedure. You will register at the front desk and sign papers giving your consent to have the procedure and for your financial obligation. Any co-payments will be collected at this time.
  • What happens prior to the procedure?
    When you are in the pre-op area a nurse will take your vital signs. An IV will be started and you will meet with the physician who will review your history and answer any further questions you may have. A history and physical exam will be done if necessary.
  • What happens during the procedure?
    Once in the procedure room, your physician and a nurse will be personally responsible for your comfort and well being throughout the entire procedure. They will monitor your blood pressure, EKG pattern, and oxygen saturation. They will manage any medical problems that may arise related to the procedure or sedation. You will receive a combination of intravenous medications. The combination, dose and frequency are individualized for each patient. In most cases, patients don’t remember their procedure because they are adequately sedated so that any discomfort is well tolerated.
  • What will happen after the procedure?
    After the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery room where specially trained nurses will care for you. In most cases you will have little to no discomfort. Your doctor will want to speak with you and your family at your bedside. In many cases, the patient will not recall having talked with their physician due to the medications used during the procedure that induce temporary amnesia.
  • How soon can I go home?
    You may be discharged as soon as you are able to tolerate sitting up and your vital signs are stable. Depending on the type of sedation used, this can be as soon as 30 minutes. You can expect to be sleepy and forgetful all day. The person who will be driving you home will be brought back to recovery where verbal and written instructions will be given including recommendations regarding any further testing, treatments, or office visits. Also, you will receive a written explanation of the procedure and its findings.
  • What will my recovery be like at home?
    Be prepared to go home and finish your recovery. You may feel the after effects of the sedation including drowsiness, dizziness, and forgetfulness. You may have nausea and vomiting but this is rare. These side effects usually decline several hours following the procedure. It will be your responsibility to follow the instructions given to assure a safe and pleasant recovery. You will also be responsible for the follow-up visit with your physician if indicated.
  • I'm still unsure. What if I have questions?
    Remember the focus of the procedure is on you, the patient. Please feel free to ask questions! Your experience will be easier if you know what you should expect.
  • What about billing for the procedure? How is that handled?
    In order to assure proper billing, be sure to bring your insurance card and driver’s license on the day of your procedure. It is important that we have accurate demographic information for your insurance to be processed. We request that any co-pay required by your insurance be paid at the time of registration. Our business office will contact you by phone and/or a letter to discuss the amount that will be due. After your insurance is processed, you will receive a bill from CEC for the facility usage, supplies, medication, etc. You will also receive a bill from your physician for the procedure performed. If you have a biopsy or any lab work done, you will receive a bill from the lab where the work was done and from any pathologist involved.
  • What are your payment methods?
    The center accepts cash, money order, cashiers check, personal checks, MasterCard, Visa, Discover Card or American Express.
  • What is an Advanced Directive?
    An Advanced Directive is a legal valid document, which would allow you to communicate to others your preferences concerning your medical treatment in the event you could not do so on ...
  • What are my rights and responsibilities?
    You have the right to: Quality care and treatment. Be treated with respect and dignity ...
Longmont, CO Gastroenterology Colorado Center for Digestive Disorders 205 South Main Street Longmont, CO 80501 (303) 776-6115