The majority of procedures require preparation up to 7 days prior to your procedure. Our specialists would have informed you of what preparation you require. If this is Bowel Preparation, please see our Bowel Preparation information as this will guide you through step by step how to prepare.
Preparation is crucial; it prepares the gut for maximum visibility and maximises accuracy in diagnosis.
If at any time you have questions or need help, please contact us on 02 9131 2111.
Please note you will need someone to take you home – it is not safe to travel on your own after being sedated.
What to expect on the day of your procedure
On the day of your procedure, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your procedure time. This is so we can ensure a smooth admissions process.
Upon arrival at the hospital, you will be checked in and taken in to the procedure room, a nurse will take you to a bed and provide you with a gown. One of our specialists will then come and meet with you to explain what he will be doing in the procedure. You will sign a consent form – and once you are comfortable, the intravenous (IV) line will be inserted in to your arm for sedation. Sedation is administered by dedicated anaesthetists or specialist seditionists.
After the procedure you will be offered a drink and snack and will need to remain in recovery for up to 2 hours. Your assigned specialist will come and see you once you are awake and update you about the procedure and what the next steps are. If you were on any medication, your assigned specialist will advise when you can return to this, if you were asked to cease any.
If you have any food allergies or intolerances, we recommend that you bring your own snack or light meal.
Once you are cleared to leave, you will need someone to take you home – it is not safe to travel on your own after being sedated.
What to expect after your procedure
You may feel groggy for a while after the procedure, this is due to being sedated. This will wear off, but please note that for 24 hours after the procedure you cannot drive, sign legal documents or operate any machinery – and we recommend that you take the remainder of the day to rest. It is advisable that along with someone taking you home, someone be with you for a period after as well.
You are able to resume eating and continue with other activities as normal.
You may experience some bloating and gas. This will pass. If you are in pain or are bleeding, please contact the hospital where you had the procedure or the consulting rooms in which you were seen. If this occurs after hours, please present to your local Emergency Department.
Contact information for Sydney Gut Clinic can be found here.
Complications
Complications are rare; these are a very safe procedures, however if you experience any symptoms that are not normal for you, it is recommended that you contact your assigned Gatroenterologist. If you feel very unwell, we recommend that you present at your local hospital’s Emergency Department.