FAQ | Gastrointestinal Associates, LLC

Do I need colon cancer screening?
Colon cancer screening is best performed by colonoscopy. It should begin at age 50 and be repeated every 10 years. If a person has an immediate family member diagnosed with colon cancer before age 65, then colonoscopy should begin at age 40 or 10 years younger than the age of the family member when they were diagnosed.
I have heard there are new preparations for a colonoscopy that may be easier to complete. Can I use the "pill" or "Gatorade" preparation?
Our doctors use a variety of preparations depending on individual patient medical history, risk, factors, personal preference and other factors. When your procedure is scheduled, the scheduler will review your medical history and select the preparation best suited for you. If you have specific questions about your options for preparations, ask your scheduler. She will be able to check with your doctor about different options.
Can I start the Colyte®, Golytely®, Halflytely®, TriLyte®, Nulytely® or Glycolax laxative preparation later in the day?
You may begin the laxative later in the day. Some people prefer to begin around 5:00 p.m. Do not start later than 6:00 p.m. so that you are able to get a good night's sleep before your procedure.
The instructions on the bottle of laxative are different than what I was given by Gastrointestinal Associates. Which instructions should I follow?
If you have printed instructions from us, you should follow them. If you did not receive printed instructions and are not sure how to use the laxative, please refer to the "Procedure Prep" section of this website or call our office.
What if I have trouble taking the laxative solution prescribed for my colonoscopy preparation?
Some people experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping or chills. If these symptoms occur, wait 30 minutes before taking any more laxative and drink the solution more slowly when you resume. Completing the solution is important to guarantee that the preparation of your colon is complete, but you may take more time if needed. If you have only been able to drink one-half of the solution after four hours, you may need to use a different laxative. If you are passing only clear liquid into the commode with no particulate matter or color, stop the laxative solution and follow the remainder of your preparation instructions. If you are still passing stool, particularly matter or dark colored fluid, call the answering service at 913-495-9600 to reach the doctor on call.
I am scheduled for a procedure. What do I do if I have not completed my prep?
If you have problems with your prep and have not found your answer here, call the office, during office hours, at 913-495-9600 and contact your doctor's scheduler for instructions. For assistance after office hours call 913-495-9600 to leave a message for the on call physician.
Should I take my normal medications before the procedure?
Using a small amount of water, take your prescription medication as you usually do unless you have been instructed not to take the medication prior to your procedure. It is very important that you take your blood pressure or heart medication as usual. If you are on blood thinner, such as Coumadin (Warfarin) or Plavix, refer to the next question.
What should I do if I take prescription blood thinners?
Call you primary care doctor or cardiologist and confirm that it is safe for you to stop the medication. If your doctor tells you that you cannot stop the medication then please call us immediately to make us aware of this.
What should I do if I take insulin?
Call the doctor treating your diabetes at least five days before your procedure and ask for instructions.
Should a diabetic patient check blood sugar at home before the procedure?
Yes, we want to have a baseline to anticipate any needs you may have during or after the procedure. We will check your blood sugar upon arrival at the facility.
What should I do if I take herbal medications?
It is best to stop any herbal remedies five days before the procedure as many of them can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure.
What should I do if I take iron?
If you are having a colonoscopy, stop the iron five days before the procedure. Iron can interfere with the colonoscopy preparation, resulting in a poorly cleansed colon. You do not need to stop iron if you are only having an upper endoscopy.
Can I still have my procedure if I am on an antibiotic?
It is OK to still have your procedure if you are taking an antibiotic. If you are running a fever, you need to contact the office.
Will I be asleep for my procedure?
Our CRNA's may use several medications specifically selected for you based upon your health history. The medication commonly used is Propofol (a sedative). The sedation is called Monitored Anesthesia Care, or MAC. MAC anesthesia is perfectly suited to a short procedure like a colonoscopy or EGD. It is quick acting, very safe and you feel no pain or embarrassment during the procedure. The anesthetic effect wears off quickly in the recovery area.
How long will I be there for the procedure?
Your total time here could be 2 to 2 ½ hours. Your driver should plan on being available for this amount of time.
Why can't I drive myself home?
The medication you receive during the procedure will remain in your system and make it unsafe for you to drive for the remainder of the day.
What activities can I plan to do after the procedure?
You will likely be drowsy when you leave. The medication used for sedation will remain in your system, and you should not drive, operate equipment or make legally-binding decisions for the remainder of the day. We advise that you take the entire day off from work. If you feel well, you may participate in most other activities.
Can I eat after the procedure?
You will be able to resume a normal diet after your procedure. It is best to plan to eat a light meal at home after leaving our facility. You will likely still be drowsy when you leave and may not feel like eating in a restaurant.