What is the average time for a colonoscopy?

Answer 1

The day prior to the colonoscopy should only entail a liquid diet (i.e. broth, water, Sprite, 7-up, tea, coffee without sugar or cream, and jello--avoid orange or red. Cease all fluid intake at midnight before the procedure.

Answer 2

Studies have shown that the procedure is most effective if the gastroenterologist takes more than 6 minutes to withdraw the scope. It takes a few minutes to insert it so the procudure itself will usually be 10 minutes or less. There will be some times to check in, get set up and then recover afterward so you should count on being there for at least two hours.

Answer 3

The actual procedure takes about 30 minutes, but you have to prepare for it several days in advance. Follow your doctor's instructions.

• The doctor may give you a diet to follow several days prior to the test.
• You may have to stop taking certain dietary supplements several days before the test.
• Make sure the gastroenterologist knows all your prescription meds and follow instructions about your dosing schedule. Ask if you are uncertain.
• The day before the test you usually are on clear liquids only. Even blue and red colors might need to be avoided.
• The evening before the test, the doctor will have you take something to clean out your gut. It could be pills or you might drink a liquid. (tip: If it is a liquid mix, they don't necessarily taste good. Use a straw. Stay close to a bathroom.) You might be directed to use an enema.
• Usually, you cannot eat or drink anything within 2 hours of the test.
• You will need someone to drive you to and from the clinic.
• Follow instructions closely. You don't want to get this far then do something that will cancel the test.

There are several different methods to prep for a colonoscopy and they have changed over the years.

On the more humorous side: How long is a colonoscopy? About 5 feet.

Answer 4

5 feet