Frequently Asked Questions

Endoscopy Procedure

Will I need someone to take me home?
Yes. Please have a responsible adult drive you to our Center, plan on having them stay at the Center during your procedure and be able to drive you home when you are ready to be discharged. A comfortable waiting area is provided for the person who accompanies you. We request that you leave children at home.

Who should I call if I have a question about my bowel prep?
Please call your G.I. physician's office to answer any questions regarding your bowel prep.

How will I know my procedure time?
Your G.I. physician's's office will notify you of your procedure time. If you have questions about the time, please call your G.I. physician's office.

What should I do if I think I am getting ill?
If you are ill on the day before or the day of your surgery, please call your doctor. If you are unable to reach your doctor, please call Westfall Surgery Center at (585) 256-1521.

How should I dress?
Wear comfortable clothing that is loose fitting and easy to get on and off. You will be required to change into a patient gown. Leave valuables at home.

What information will I need to bring with me on the day of surgery?
Please bring a photo ID and your insurance cards. You also need to bring your completed G.I. health assessment and pre-registration form that you were given in the G.I. physician's office.

If you did not receive these forms from your G.I. physician's office your can print them out here: Individuals Having a Procedure in the Endoscopy Center and Patient Pre-Registration Form for Endoscopy or Laser.

When I arrive at the Center, how do I get to the endoscopy unit?
After entering the front doors of the Center, the elevator is located on the right hand side. Take the elevator to the ground floor. The G.I. check in/waiting area will be to your right. Once the secretary checks you in, the nurse will be out to get you.

How long does the procedure take and how long will I be at the Center?
An upper endoscopy usually takes between 15 and 20 minutes and a colonoscopy usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes. You will be asked to arrive at the endoscopy center half an hour to 45 minutes prior to your exam time. A nurse will go over your medical history and place a small intravenous catheter in your vein in order for the physician to administer medication that will make you sleepy during the procedure. You will be monitored in the recovery area for at least 30 minutes after the procedure. The total time in Center for an endoscopy exam is 1 ½ - 2 hours. Patients who are not sedated may be discharged after 15 minutes in the recovery room.

When will I get my results?
Your physician will talk to you prior to your leaving the Center. If any biopsy or pathology was done the results will be communicated to you from your physician's office.