Rego Park Endoscopy ASC Patient Resource Center
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an endoscopy center?
An endoscopy center is a specialized outpatient facility where physicians perform minimally invasive procedures to examine and treat the digestive tract. Using a flexible instrument called an endoscope, equipped with a tiny camera and light, doctors can view the esophagus, stomach, and colon in real time. These centers provide a safe, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to hospital settings for procedures such as colonoscopies, upper endoscopies (gastroscopies), and other diagnostic or therapeutic exams. Endoscopy centers allow specialists to detect and remove polyps, collect tissue samples (biopsies), and treat issues such as bleeding, inflammation, or blockages—all while enabling patients to return home the same day.
Are endoscopy and colonoscopy same-day procedures?
Yes. At our Rego Park, Queens Article 28 Endoscopy Center, most patients are able to have their procedure and return home the very same day. Both endoscopies and colonoscopies are outpatient procedures, meaning they are performed in a safe, specialized setting without the need for an overnight hospital stay.
What is the difference between an endoscopy and a colonoscopy?
Both procedures use a thin, flexible tube with a camera called an endoscope, but they examine different parts of the digestive tract. An upper endoscopy (gastroscopy) is used to view the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, often to diagnose issues like acid reflux, ulcers, or swallowing problems. A colonoscopy is used to examine the colon (large intestine) and rectum, most commonly to screen for colon cancer, remove polyps, or evaluate causes of bleeding and changes in bowel habits.
What is the recovery like after an endoscopy or colonoscopy?
Recovery from both procedures is usually quick since they are outpatient, same-day surgeries. After an endoscopy, most patients feel normal within a few hours, though you may experience mild throat soreness or bloating. After a colonoscopy, it’s common to feel temporary gas, bloating, or cramping as the air used during the exam passes out of the body.
Because sedation is used for both procedures, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. Most people return to normal activities the next day, though your doctor may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise until fully recovered.
Do I need a referral to get a colonoscopy or endoscopy?
Yes. You will need a referral from your gastroenterologist or from one of the practicing physicians affiliated with our Ambulatory Surgery Center. This ensures that the procedure is medically appropriate, covered by insurance, and tailored to your individual health needs.