Colonoscopy, Endoscopy, EGD, upper endoscopy

What To Expect

At Reham El-Shaer MD office we provide;

Colon cancer screenings and endoscopic procedures
Weight control and life style changes
Electronic screens for GI demonstrations and latest medical updates
Patient educational tablets and brochures
Help with prescription coverage alternatives
Onsite COVID19 testing within the comfort and privacy of our state certified office-based lab
Different diet restrictions guidance and handouts

We understand you probably have a lot of questions about our services, our procedures and what to expect so we’ve listed some of the most common questions and answers below. Of course, if you have additional questions you can always contact our office or we’ll be happy to address them during your visit.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is colonoscopy?

A Colonoscopy is a life-saving procedure used to see inside the colon and rectum. It can detect inflamed tissue, ulcers and abnormal growths that could ultimately result in colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy is the only screening test which prevents colon cancer which is the only preventable and curable cancer when diagnosed early and can also help doctors diagnose unexplained changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bleeding from the anus and weight loss.

How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?

You will be on a clear liquid diet the whole day prior to your appointment. You will also do a bowel cleanse on this day & you will receive instructions on how to do this. You will be instructed to not have anything else by mouth after midnight (in preparation for IV sedation). On the day of your procedure you may take any heart or blood pressure meds with a very small sip of water.

What can I expect when I arrive?

At check in, you will be handed forms to review and sign while waiting to be called to the Endoscopy suite. Once in the endo suite, the nurse and the anesthesiologist will review your current medications with you as well as medical history and any other pertinent information the team will need to know, in order to meet your individual needs during your procedure.

You will be handed a bin to place your clothes and other personal items, and a gown to change into. We ask that you wear a T-shirt, or tank under long sleeves so the nurse can have better access to start an intravenous line. Your clothes and personal items will accompany you, under your stretcher.

You will then proceed to the procedure room, where you will have safety monitors placed on your body for observation of your vital signs throughout your procedure.

You will be lying on your left side before you are given a sedation by the anesthesiologist through your IV that will keep you asleep and comfortable during the entire procedure.

When the procedure is finished, you will be wheeled back to the recovery area on your stretcher. You will be monitored by P.A.C.U. staff until you are awake and alert, and V/S are stable. You will then be seen by Dr. El-Shaer, and given any follow-up recommendations and discharge instructions. You MUST have a responsible adult provide transportation to and from your procedure. Taxi pick up is NOT allowed under any circumstances

What is EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy), or "upper endoscopy"?

This is a test to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine. Tissue samples may be taken with biopsy forceps inserted through the endoscope. Any polyps seen may be removed with these forceps as well.

How do I prepare for an EGD?

You will need to eat a light dinner the day before your scheduled procedure but not later than 7pm. You may drink as much fluid as you like after 7pm but you are instructed to stop eating or drinking anything past midnight that night (in preparation for IV sedation during your procedure). You may take any blood pressure or heart medication the morning of your procedure with a very small sip of water

COVID-19 Testing & Safety Measures

Here at the Medical Office of Reham El-Shaer MD, patient safety is always our top priority. That’s why we are offering onsite COVID-19 testing and following all the latest CDC guidelines to protect our staff and patients against the spread of COVID-19. We are utilizing the most current and up-to-date measures for COVID-19 disinfection including: (1) PPE including masks, gowns ,gloves , sanitizers, (2) ultraviolet light for air and surface disinfection, (3) Air purifiers using NASA technology, (4) screening all patients and individuals before entering the office using temp checks, COVID19 questionnaire, and onsite COVID19 testing within 5 days of scheduled procedures.

If you are in any way feeling sick, have a fever or any symptoms of COVID-19, please contact our office before coming in.

OFFICE LOCATION

OFFICE HOURS

Mon-Thu 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, EST | Fri-Sun Closed

Appointments: Call (845) 309-7597 or Click here

PAYMENT OPTIONS

Accepted Insurance Providers: AETNA – Medicare Plan Only, AARP – No Other UHC Plans, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, CDPHP, FIDELIS, CIGNA, MVP – Most Plans, WELLCARE, 1199, GEHA, INDECS, POMCO, MAIL HANDLERS, PCHS