specific procedure INFORMATION
Endoscopy
If you are having a gastroscopy or colonoscopy, the information below explains how to prepare, what to expect from your sedation and what happens afterwards.
Most endoscopies are short procedures and you will usually be able to go home the same day. I will review your health and medications and discuss the planned sedation with you before your procedure.
Further information
Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists
Australian Society of Anaesthetist
About your endoscopy
Gastroscopy
A gastroscopy looks at the upper part of your digestive system. A thin, flexible camera is passed through your mouth and into your oesophagus, stomach and the first part of your small bowel.
It can be used to investigate symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, reflux and other problems affecting the oesophagus or stomach.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy looks at your large bowel. A thin, flexible camera is passed through the rectum so your specialist can examine the inside of your colon.
During the procedure, your specialist may also take samples or remove polyps if required.
Preparing for your endoscopy
Your endoscopy centre will give you instructions about preparing for your procedure. Follow these carefully, particularly any instructions about bowel preparation, fasting and medications.
01
Complete your questionnaire
Complete your pre-operative questionnaire as early as possible so I can review your health, medications and previous anaesthetic experiences before your procedure.
Complete questionnaire →
02
Follow your preparation instructions
Follow the instructions provided by your endoscopy centre or specialist. If you are having a colonoscopy, this will include bowel preparation to make sure your bowel is clear for the procedure.
03
Fasting
Follow the fasting instructions provided for your procedure. If you are unsure when you should stop eating or drinking, check with your hospital or endoscopy centre before your procedure.
Fasting information →
Sedation for your endoscopy
Most endoscopies are performed with sedation. The aim is to keep you comfortable during the procedure, while allowing your endoscopy to be performed safely. I will discuss the planned sedation with you before your procedure.
01
Your sedation
Sedation is given through a small intravenous cannula, usually in your arm or hand. It will make you very sleepy and comfortable during your procedure. Most patients remember little or nothing about it.
02
Monitoring
Your breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored throughout your procedure.
03
During your procedure
I will stay with you throughout your procedure, continuously monitoring you and adjusting your sedation as needed.
04
Your individual plan
The anaesthetic plan depends on your procedure, your health and individual circumstances. Occasionally, a different level of sedation or a general anaesthetic may be more appropriate. I will discuss this with you before your procedure.
If you are having a gastroscopy
A mouthguard is usually placed in your mouth to protect your teeth and the endoscope during the procedure.
Once you are sedated, the endoscope is passed through your mouth to examine your oesophagus, stomach and the first part of your small bowel.
After your endoscopy
Most people recover quickly after an endoscopy. Here are some common things you may notice in the first few hours after your procedure.
01
Recovery
You may feel sleepy when you first wake up. Nursing staff will monitor you while the sedation wears off and until you have recovered sufficiently.
02
Bloating and wind
After a colonoscopy, you may feel bloated or pass wind for a while. This is common and usually settles as the gas used during the procedure passes.
03
Sore throat
After a gastroscopy, your throat may feel dry or mildly sore. This is usually temporary and should settle on its own.
04
Nausea
Some people feel nauseated after an endoscopy or sedation. If you feel unwell while you are in recovery, let your nurse know. Medication can be given if needed.
What happens next?
After your endoscopy, you will be monitored while the sedation wears off. Find out what to expect during your recovery and after you leave hospital.