How Long Does a Colonoscopy Take? Decoding the Procedure Timeline

When preparing for a colonoscopy, one of the most common and practical questions people ask is, "How long will it take?" The answer is more complex than a single number, and understanding the complete timeline is key to reducing anxiety and planning your day effectively. While the procedure itself is relatively brief, the total time commitment at the medical facility involves several distinct phases. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the entire colonoscopy experience, from arrival to departure, to help you understand what to expect.

A colonoscopy is recognized as the most effective screening tool for colorectal cancer, a disease that is highly preventable and treatable when detected in its early stages. Major health organizations, including the American Cancer Society, recommend that adults at average risk begin regular screening at age 45. Understanding the time involved in this life-saving procedure is the first step toward a confident and well-managed healthcare experience.

What is a Colonoscopy? A Clear and Simple Explanation

Before diving into the timeline, it is essential to understand what a colonoscopy is and why it is performed. It is far more than just a camera test; it is a dynamic procedure that can screen, diagnose, and even treat conditions within the large intestine.

The Purpose of the Procedure: Beyond Just a Look Inside

A colonoscopy is a multifaceted medical procedure that serves three primary functions: screening, diagnosis, and therapy. Its unique value lies in its ability to both identify and immediately address issues during a single session.

Screening: This is the procedure's most critical preventative role. A screening colonoscopy is performed on individuals who have no symptoms to look for precancerous growths called polyps or early-stage colorectal cancer. By finding and removing polyps before they can turn into cancer, a colonoscopy can prevent the disease from ever developing.
Diagnosis: A diagnostic colonoscopy is used to investigate the cause of specific signs and symptoms. These may include rectal bleeding, chronic changes in bowel habits (like diarrhea or constipation), persistent abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. The direct visualization of the colon lining allows the doctor to identify potential causes like inflammation, ulcers, or tumors.
Therapy: During the procedure, a doctor can perform therapeutic interventions. The most common is a polypectomy, the removal of polyps. Other treatments can include placing a stent to open a blockage or using special tools to stop sources of bleeding.

The Technology: The Colonoscope Explained

The key instrument used is a colonoscope, a marvel of medical engineering. It is not merely a passive camera but an active tool that gives the physician remarkable control and capability.

The colonoscope is a long, thin, and highly flexible tube, approximately the width of a finger. At its tip is a high-definition, wide-angle video camera and a bright light that transmit clear, detailed images of the colon's inner lining to a monitor. The scope also contains several internal channels that serve critical functions. Through these channels, the doctor can:

Pump air or, more commonly, carbon dioxide (CO2) into the colon to gently inflate it, smoothing out the folds for a much better view.
Use a water jet to wash away any remaining debris to ensure the surface is clearly visible.
Suction out liquid or air.
Pass tiny, specialized instruments through to perform biopsies or remove polyps.

The Medical Team: Who Performs a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a specialized procedure performed by a highly trained medical professional, supported by a dedicated team.

The Specialist: The procedure is most often performed by a gastroenterologist, a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive system. These doctors have undergone extensive, focused training in endoscopy. Colorectal surgeons, who specialize in surgical treatments of the colon and rectum, and other specially trained endoscopists also perform colonoscopies. Research suggests that procedures performed by dedicated gastroenterologists, who perform a high volume of colonoscopies, may be associated with more thorough examinations and lower rates of complications. This expertise is a crucial factor in the quality of your care, so patients should feel empowered to ask about their doctor's qualifications and experience.
The Anesthesia Provider: An anesthesiologist (a medical doctor) or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is responsible for administering sedation and monitoring your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.
The Nursing Staff: Endoscopy nurses play a vital role in preparing you for the procedure, assisting the doctor during the exam, and caring for you in the recovery room.
Your Primary Care Doctor: While not present during the procedure, your primary care physician is a key part of the process. They typically recommend the screening, refer you to the specialist, help you manage your medications during the prep phase, and review the final results with you as part of your overall healthcare plan.

The Core Question: How Long Does a Colonoscopy Take?

Now, let's address the central question. The time it takes for a colonoscopy can be broken down into three parts: the main procedure, additional time for interventions, and the total time you will spend at the facility.

The Main Procedure: Timing the Examination

For a standard, uncomplicated screening colonoscopy where no polyps are found, the procedure itself is quite fast.

Most sources indicate that the examination takes between 15 and 30 minutes to complete. A slightly wider but still common range is 30 to 60 minutes. This variation often depends on the individual patient's anatomy and the thoroughness of the physician.

The procedure involves two main phases. First, the doctor advances the scope to the end of the large intestine (the cecum), which takes about half the time. The second, and arguably more critical phase, is the slow, careful withdrawal of the scope. It is during this withdrawal that the doctor meticulously inspects the entire colon lining for any abnormalities. Professional guidelines recommend a minimum withdrawal time of at least six minutes to ensure a high-quality examination and reduce the chance of missing small polyps. This highlights an important point: a faster procedure is not necessarily a better one. A conscientious doctor will take the time needed for a thorough inspection.

When More Time is Needed: Removing Polyps and Taking Biopsies

The most common reason a colonoscopy takes longer than the baseline 15-30 minutes is the discovery of polyps or other abnormalities that require intervention.

Polyp Removal (Polypectomy): Finding and removing polyps is a very common part of a colonoscopy. This process, called a polypectomy, can add 15 minutes or more to the total procedure time. The exact time depends on the number of polyps found, as well as their size, shape, and location. Small polyps can be removed quickly, while larger or flatter polyps may require more advanced and time-consuming techniques.
Biopsies: If the doctor sees an area of inflammation or other abnormal-looking tissue, they will take a small sample (a biopsy) for laboratory analysis. While taking a single biopsy is very quick, taking multiple samples from different areas of the colon will addto the overall time.

The Total Time Commitment: Your Day at the Clinic

This is the most critical number for planning purposes. While the procedure itself is short, the entire process from the moment you walk into the hospital or outpatient center to the moment you leave takes significantly longer.

Patients and their designated drivers should plan to be at the facility for a total of 2 to 4 hours. This comprehensive timeframe includes:

Pre-procedure (30-60 minutes): This period is for checking in, filling out final paperwork, changing into a gown, speaking with the nursing staff and the anesthesia provider, and having an IV line placed.
Procedure (30-60 minutes): This is the time spent in the procedure room for the actual colonoscopy, including any polyp removals or biopsies.
Recovery (30-60 minutes): After the exam, you will be monitored in a recovery area as the sedation wears off before you are cleared for discharge.

Summary of Key Timing Points

To make it easy to remember, here is a summary of the key timeframes associated with a colonoscopy:

Standard Procedure Duration: 15 to 60 minutes
Time Added for Polyp Removal: 15+ minutes, depending on complexity
Pre-Procedure Time at Facility: 30 to 60 minutes
Post-Procedure Recovery at Facility: 30 to 60 minutes
Total Time at Facility: 2 to 4 hours
Required At-Home Recovery: Rest for the remainder of the day (at least 24 hours)
Wait for Biopsy/Polyp Results: Typically 3 to 14 days

A Detailed Breakdown of a Typical Colonoscopy Visit

To help demystify the process, let's walk through a step-by-step timeline of what a typical colonoscopy appointment looks like. Understanding this flow can help manage expectations and reduce any anxiety about the unknown.

Arrival and Pre-Procedure Steps

The time before your procedure is dedicated to final preparations and crucial safety checks. You will typically be asked to arrive about one hour before your scheduled procedure time.

Upon arrival, you will check in at the registration desk, where you will complete any remaining paperwork and sign consent forms. Soon after, a nurse will call you to the pre-operative area. Here, they will review your medical history, confirm the procedure you are having, ask about any last-minute health concerns, and answer any questions you may have. You will then change into a hospital gown.

A critical step is the placement of an intravenous (IV) line, usually in your arm or hand. This is how the sedation medication will be administered. You will also meet with the anesthesiologist or CRNA, who will discuss the sedation plan with you and answer any questions about the anesthesia.

The Procedure Itself: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Once the pre-procedure checks are complete, you will be taken to the procedure room. The environment is calm and controlled, and the team's focus is on your safety and comfort.

You will be helped onto an examination table and asked to lie on your left side with your knees drawn up toward your chest. The anesthesia provider will then administer the sedative medication through your IV. The medication works very quickly, and most patients fall asleep within minutes and have little to no memory of the procedure afterward.

Throughout the entire exam, your vital signs—including your heart rate, blood pressure, and blood oxygen levels—are continuously monitored by the anesthesia team. The gastroenterologist then gently inserts the lubricated colonoscope and carefully advances it through the rectum and the entire length of the colon. To get a clear view, the doctor will introduce air or carbon dioxide to inflate the colon; if you were awake, this might feel like bloating or mild cramping.

The doctor inspects the colon lining on the way in, but the most detailed examination occurs during the slow, methodical withdrawal of the scope. If any polyps or other abnormal tissues are found, specialized tools are passed through the scope to remove them or take biopsy samples at that time.

The Recovery Room: Waking Up and Initial Findings

After the colonoscope is removed, you will be moved to a dedicated recovery area to rest as the sedation wears off. This phase typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.

Nurses will continue to monitor your vital signs to ensure you are waking up safely and comfortably. It is very common to feel bloated or to pass gas during this time. This is a normal and expected part of the process as the air used during the procedure is expelled. Walking around, once you are able, can help relieve this discomfort.

Once you are sufficiently awake and your vital signs are stable, the gastroenterologist will come to speak with you and your designated driver. They will provide a brief, preliminary summary of what they found during the procedure, such as whether any polyps were removed. Because you will still be groggy from the sedation, having another person present to listen and take notes is extremely helpful.

Finally, you will be discharged from the facility. For your safety, you will likely be taken to your car in a wheelchair, and you must have a responsible adult present to drive you home. Medical centers will not discharge a patient to go home alone in a taxi or rideshare service.

A Sample Colonoscopy Day Timeline

To visualize how these pieces fit together, here is a sample timeline for a routine colonoscopy scheduled for 8:00 AM.

7:00 AM – 7:30 AM - Arrival & Check-in
- You will arrive at the facility, confirm your personal and insurance details, and sign consent forms.
- Estimated Duration: ~30 minutes
7:30 AM – 8:00 AM - Pre-Operative Prep
- A nurse will take your vital signs, review your health history, place your IV, and you will meet the anesthesia provider.
- Estimated Duration: ~30 minutes
8:00 AM – 8:45 AM - The Colonoscopy Procedure
- You will be taken to the procedure room, receive sedation, and the gastroenterologist will perform the examination.
- Estimated Duration: ~30-45 minutes
8:45 AM – 9:30 AM - Recovery Room
- You will rest in a monitored recovery area while the sedation wears off. You may feel groggy and bloated.
- Estimated Duration: ~45 minutes
9:30 AM – 10:00 AM - Post-Procedure Review & Discharge
- The doctor will discuss initial findings. Once stable, you will get dressed and be prepared for discharge.
- Estimated Duration: ~30 minutes
10:00 AM - Departure
- Your designated driver will take you home to rest for the remainder of the day.
- Estimated Duration: -

Key Factors That Can Influence Your Visit's Length

While the timeline above represents a typical experience, several factors can make a colonoscopy procedure shorter or longer. These variables relate to the patient's body, the findings of the exam, the type of sedation used, and the medical team's experience.

Your Unique Anatomy: How Colon Shape and Past Surgeries Play a Role

Just as people have different heights and builds, the internal anatomy of the colon varies from person to person. These differences can sometimes make navigating the colonoscope more challenging and time-consuming.

Long or "Loopy" Colon: Some individuals have a colon that is longer than average or has extra loops, a condition known as a tortuous or redundant colon. This is particularly common in the sigmoid and transverse sections and can cause the scope to form loops, making it more difficult for the doctor to advance it to the end. This anatomical variation is seen more frequently in women, partly because the female colon is, on average, longer and may dip down into the pelvis.
Adhesions from Prior Surgery: Patients who have had previous abdominal or pelvic surgeries (such as a hysterectomy or bowel resection) may have internal scar tissue called adhesions. These adhesions can bind the colon to other structures, fixing it in place and creating sharp, difficult-to-navigate bends.
Diverticular Disease: The presence of extensive diverticulosis (many small pouches in the colon wall) can make the colon more rigid and spastic, and it can be challenging for the endoscopist to safely find the correct path through the narrowed segments.
Body Habitus: Both obesity and a very low body mass index (BMI) can present unique technical challenges. In obese patients, it can be harder to apply external pressure to the abdomen to prevent looping. In very thin patients, the lack of visceral fat can lead to a more angulated colon.

The Complexity of Findings: Why More Polyps Mean More Time

What the doctor finds during the exam is one of the biggest determinants of procedure length. A colonoscopy that is purely for screening with no abnormalities found will be much quicker than one where multiple interventions are needed.

The Number and Type of Polyps: As mentioned, each polyp removal adds time. Furthermore, the characteristics of the polyps matter. A large polyp (greater than 1 cm) or a flat polyp that is flush with the colon wall is significantly more complex and time-consuming to remove than a small polyp on a narrow stalk. These may require advanced techniques like Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR), which involves injecting fluid under the polyp to lift it before removal.
Poor Bowel Preparation: This is a critical, patient-controlled factor. If the colon is not adequately cleaned out, the doctor's view will be obscured by stool and debris. This forces the doctor to spend valuable procedure time washing and suctioning the colon lining to try and get a clear view. In cases of very poor preparation, the procedure may be deemed unsafe or incomplete. This leads to the worst possible outcome: the colonoscopy must be stopped and completely rescheduled, requiring you to repeat the entire prep process and take another day off work.

Sedation and Recovery: How Your Anesthesia Choice Affects the Clock

The type of sedation used for your comfort directly impacts how quickly you recover and are ready for discharge.

Deep Sedation / Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC): This is the most common form of sedation for colonoscopies in the U.S. today. It typically uses the drug propofol, which is administered by an anesthesiologist or CRNA. Propofol is extremely fast-acting and also wears off very quickly. This results in a rapid, clear-headed recovery with less lingering grogginess or nausea, often allowing for a shorter stay in the recovery room.
Moderate / "Conscious" Sedation: This older method, also called "twilight" sedation, uses a combination of a benzodiazepine (like midazolam/Versed) and an opioid painkiller (like fentanyl). While effective, these drugs have a longer duration of action. Recovery can take longer, and patients are more likely to feel groggy, sleepy, or "hungover" for a longer period after the procedure.
Individual Recovery: Beyond the type of drug, every person metabolizes medication differently. Factors like age, overall health, and individual sensitivity to anesthesia can also influence how long it takes to feel awake and alert.

The Importance of an Experienced Medical Team

The skill and efficiency of the entire medical team, especially the endoscopist, play a significant role in the duration and quality of the procedure.

An experienced gastroenterologist is more adept at handling the technical challenges posed by difficult anatomy. They have learned techniques to navigate sharp bends and manage loops in the colonoscope, which can lead to a smoother and more efficient insertion time.

However, it is crucial to understand that a longer procedure is not always a negative sign. In fact, it can indicate a higher quality of care. A highly conscientious doctor may intentionally take more time during the withdrawal phase to perform an extremely thorough inspection of the colon wall. This longer, more meticulous withdrawal is directly linked to a higher Adenoma Detection Rate (ADR)—the percentage of procedures in which a doctor finds at least one precancerous polyp. A high ADR is a key indicator of a high-quality screening colonoscopy. Therefore, a few extra minutes spent on careful inspection is a worthwhile investment in your health.

What to Expect: Before, During, and After Your Colonoscopy

Knowing what will happen at each stage of the process can make the entire experience feel more manageable. Here are bulleted lists outlining what to expect.

Before the Procedure: The Preparation Phase

You will receive detailed bowel preparation instructions from your doctor's office well in advance.
You may be instructed to temporarily stop taking certain medications (especially blood thinners, iron supplements, and some diabetes medications) and supplements for several days before the procedure. Always consult your prescribing doctor before stopping any medication.
You will likely switch to a low-fiber diet for 3 to 5 days prior to the exam. This means avoiding things like whole grains, nuts, seeds, and raw vegetables.
For the full 24 hours before your colonoscopy, you will be on a clear liquid diet. This includes water, broth, plain coffee or tea (no milk or cream), apple juice, and gelatin. You will be instructed to avoid any liquids or foods that are red, purple, or orange, as the dyes can stain the colon and be mistaken for blood.
You will drink a prescribed laxative solution according to a specific schedule to completely clean out your colon. This will cause diarrhea, so you will need to stay near a bathroom.

During the Procedure: The Patient Experience

You will be comfortably sedated. The vast majority of patients are either in a deep, peaceful sleep or a "twilight" state and will not be aware of or remember the procedure.
If you were awake, you might feel some pressure, bloating, or mild cramping as air or CO2 is used to inflate the colon for a better view.
You will not feel any pain, even if the doctor needs to remove polyps or take biopsies.
Your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels will be constantly monitored by the anesthesia team to ensure your absolute safety.

After the Procedure: The Recovery Phase

You will rest in a dedicated recovery area for approximately 30 to 60 minutes while the immediate effects of the sedation wear off.
Feeling bloated and passing gas is normal, expected, and encouraged. It is the quickest way to relieve any discomfort from the air used during the exam.
You absolutely must have a responsible adult drive you home and ideally stay with you for a few hours. You cannot drive yourself.
You should plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Do not drive, operate machinery, sign legal documents, or make any important financial decisions for 24 hours.
You can typically resume a normal diet right away, although your doctor might suggest starting with a light meal. If many large polyps were removed, you might receive more specific dietary instructions.
Most people feel back to their normal selves and can return to work and other activities the following day.

A Comparison of Common Sedation Options

Understanding your anesthesia options can help you have a more informed conversation with your medical team.

Moderate Sedation ("Conscious" or "Twilight")
- Common Medications Used: A benzodiazepine (e.g., Midazolam) plus an opioid (e.g., Fentanyl)
- Level of Consciousness: Drowsy and relaxed; may fall asleep but can be roused; memory of the event is unlikely
- Recovery Profile: Longer recovery; may feel groggy or "hungover" for several hours
- Administered By: Gastroenterologist or a trained nurse under physician supervision
Deep Sedation (Monitored Anesthesia Care - MAC)
- Common Medications Used: Propofol
- Level of Consciousness: Unconscious/asleep; no awareness or memory of the procedure; breathing on own
- Recovery Profile: Very rapid and clear-headed recovery; effects wear off quickly with less nausea or grogginess
- Administered By: Anesthesiologist or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
General Anesthesia
- Common Medications Used: A combination of IV drugs and/or inhaled gases
- Level of Consciousness: Completely unconscious; breathing supported by breathing tube and ventilator
- Recovery Profile: Longest recovery time
- Administered By: Anesthesiologist

How to Prepare Efficiently for a Smooth and Timely Procedure

Of all the factors that influence the duration and success of a colonoscopy, the quality of your bowel preparation is the one you have the most control over. An effective prep is the foundation of an efficient and accurate exam.

Essential Preparation Steps for Success

Read Instructions Early: As soon as you receive your prep kit and instructions, read them thoroughly. This gives you time to buy any necessary supplies (like clear liquids or laxatives) and clarify any questions with your doctor's office.
Adjust Your Diet in Advance: Starting a low-fiber diet a few days before your prep day can make the final clean-out process much easier and more effective.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is a common side effect of bowel prep. Drink plenty of approved clear liquids (water, broth, electrolyte drinks) throughout prep day to stay hydrated and feel better.
Improve the Taste of the Prep: Many people find the prep solution unpalatable. Chilling it in the refrigerator, drinking it quickly through a straw placed at the back of your tongue, and chasing each glass with a sip of clear apple or white grape juice can make it much more tolerable.
Ask About a Split-Dose Regimen: Many doctors now prescribe a split-dose prep, where you drink half the solution the evening before the procedure and the second half about 4-5 hours before your appointment time. This method is often easier to tolerate and results in a cleaner colon.
Prepare Your Bathroom for Comfort: You will be spending a lot of time in the bathroom. Make it as comfortable as possible with soft or medicated toilet wipes (do not flush wipes), a barrier cream like diaper rash ointment to prevent skin irritation, and some books or a tablet for entertainment.
Finish the Entire Prep: This is critical. It may be tempting to stop once your bowel movements are clear liquid, but you must drink the entire prescribed amount. The final doses of the solution are what clean out the last section of the colon (the right side), which is often the hardest part to s

Why an Effective Prep is the Key to an Efficient Colonoscopy

Committing to a thorough bowel prep is not just about following rules; it directly impacts every aspect of your procedure's timing, quality, and outcome.

Clear View = Accurate Diagnosis: The fundamental goal of a colonoscopy is to allow the doctor to see every inch of your colon's lining. A perfectly clean colon provides an unobstructed view, making it possible to detect even the smallest, flattest polyps that could otherwise be missed.
Prevents Missed Lesions: Any remaining stool or debris can hide polyps or other important abnormalities. Worse, a small piece of debris can be mistaken for a polyp, leading to confusion. An incomplete prep directly reduces the diagnostic accuracy and preventative power of the test.
Shortens Procedure Time: When the colon is clean, the doctor can proceed efficiently with the examination. When it is not, the doctor must spend valuable procedure time repeatedly washing the colon wall and suctioning away debris, which significantly lengthens the exam.
Avoids Repeat Procedures: This is perhaps the most compelling reason. If the preparation is inadequate, the doctor cannot confidently declare the colon clear of polyps. The procedure is considered incomplete, and the result is that you will be asked to reschedule the appointment and repeat the entire process, including the diet and the full bowel prep. This not only wastes your time, money, and effort, but it also consumes a valuable appointment slot that could have been used for another patient, contributing to longer wait times and inefficiency within the healthcare system. A successful prep is a matter of personal responsibility that ensures you get the full benefit of the procedure the first time.

Conclusion

While the colonoscopy procedure itself is quick, typically lasting between 30 and 60 minutes, it is just one part of a larger time commitment. For planning purposes, you should expect your entire visit to the hospital or clinic to last between 2 and 4 hours, accounting for pre-procedure preparations and post-sedation recovery. The single most important action you can take to ensure an efficient, accurate, and successful exam is to meticulously follow your bowel preparation instructions. This life-saving screening represents a small investment of time that provides an enormous benefit to your long-term health and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the colonoscopy hurt?

A: No. You will receive sedation medication through an IV to keep you comfortable, relaxed, and pain-free. Most patients are asleep during the procedure and have little to no memory of it afterward.

Q: If the doctor finds a polyp, does that mean I have cancer?

A: Not usually. The vast majority of polyps are benign (non-cancerous). However, because some types of polyps can develop into cancer over time, removing them during the colonoscopy is a critical preventative measure.

Q: Why do I have to avoid red or purple drinks during prep?

A: The artificial dyes in red, purple, and sometimes orange liquids can stain the lining of your colon. This discoloration can easily be mistaken for blood by the doctor during the exam, potentially leading to inaccurate findings or unnecessary concern.

Q: How soon can I go back to work after my colonoscopy?

A: You must take the entire day of the procedure off from work to rest and fully recover from the sedation. Most people feel back to normal and are able to resume work and all other regular activities the very next day.

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UCLA Health. What to Expect on the Day of Your Colonoscopy
https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/gastro/colon-cancer-screening/preparing-colonoscopy/what-expect-day-your-colonoscopy
PMC (National Institutes of Health). What Is the Mean Procedure Time to Optimize Colonoscopy?
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5152777/
Baptist Health. 5 Common Questions About Colonoscopies
https://www.baptist-health.com/blog/5-common-questions-about-colonoscopies
PMC (National Institutes of Health). The Difficult Colonoscopy
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2657972/
Atrium Health. 7 Common Questions About Colonoscopies
https://atriumhealth.org/dailydose/2019/03/06/7-common-questions-about-colonoscopies
Houston Digestive Diseases Consultants. FAQs About a Colonoscopy
https://www.houstontxgi.com/blog/801545-faqs-about-a-colonoscopy/
Frontline Gastroenterology. Diagnostic Ileocolonoscopy: Getting the Basics Right
https://fg.bmj.com/content/11/6/484
Marshfield Clinic. Colonoscopy FAQ
https://www.marshfieldclinic.org/specialties/gastroenterology/colonoscopy-faq
WebMD. How to Prepare for a Colonoscopy
https://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/prepare-for-colonoscopy
American College of Gastroenterology. Colonoscopy FAQs
https://gi.org/patients/gi-health-and-disease/colonoscopy-faqs/
Johns Hopkins Medicine. Colonoscopy
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/colonoscopy
Massachusetts General Hospital. FAQ as You Prepare for Your Colonoscopy or Upper Endoscopy
https://www.massgeneral.org/medicine/gastroenterology/about/frequently-asked-questions
PMC (National Institutes of Health). Sedation for Routine Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Procedures: A Review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5683976/
Colonoscopy Assist. Conscious Sedation vs MAC Anesthesia
https://colonoscopyassist.com/Sedation.html
Mayo Clinic. Colonoscopy
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/colonoscopy/about/pac-20393569
ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists). Colonoscopy - Preparation, Risks, & Recovery
https://madeforthismoment.asahq.org/preparing-for-surgery/procedures/colonoscopy/

How Long Does a Colonoscopy Take? Decoding the Procedure Timeline