When doctors recommend endoscopy, they want to see inside a patient’s digestive tract or lungs. Endoscopy is an outpatient procedure that uses a flexible piece of equipment called an endoscope to transmit images of a patient’s gastrointestinal tract or lungs to a video screen. This allows the doctor to examine the patient’s digestive or respiratory system and take small tissue samples, known as biopsies.
South Miami Hospital’s Endoscopy staff knows that endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopies can be intimidating and embarrassing for patients. That’s why we’ve taken measures to create a relaxing environment where patient privacy and comfort are top priorities. We’ve borrowed some relaxation techniques from popular day spas in our New Age Endo approach to relieve patients’ anxiety. Imagine tranquil colors and lighting in each procedure room, aromatherapy before and after the test and your choice of music playing in the background. You may choose to wear specially designed disposable pants for privacy and comfort.
Once your doctor schedules an appointment for your endoscopy at South Miami Hospital, you should receive a call from an Endoscopy Center registrar the day before your test. If you have not received a call from the registrar by 6 p.m. the day before your procedure, please call Endoscopy Preregistration at 786-662-5280, Monday through Friday.
On the day of your appointment, plan on arriving at the hospital at the time given by the Endoscopy Center registrar. This time may be as much as an hour and a half before your procedure in order to complete preparations.
Park on the north side of the East Tower building, located along SW 62 Avenue, across from South Miami Hospital’s Main Building. Valet parking also is available. Report directly to Endoscopy, located on the sixth floor of the East Tower. Please arrange to have someone drive you home after your procedure as you will be sedated and unable to drive for 24 hours.
Helpful tips:
Bring your insurance card and photo ID with you.
Dress in comfortable, casual clothes.
Leave your valuables at home where they are safest.
Plan on being at the hospital at least three hours.
Bring a list of medications and vitamins you are taking.
If you have any questions about endoscopy, please talk to your doctor or call South Miami Hospital Endoscopy Center at 786-662-5303 from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.