Procedure Prep: Why It Matters

As a gastroenterologist, one of the most important things I emphasize to my patients is this: the success of your procedure begins long before you arrive at our office. Whether you’re scheduled for a colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, or another gastrointestinal (GI) screening, proper preparation is key to making the procedure effective, safe, and worthwhile.

Why Is Procedure Prep So Important?

Before we can perform a high-quality screening, we need a clear view of your GI tract. That clarity is only possible when the area is thoroughly cleaned out and your body is properly prepared. Here is why a quality preparation is so crucial:

1. Clear Visibility Is Everything

During procedures like colonoscopies, we are carefully inspecting the lining of your colon for anything abnormal such as polyps, inflammation, or early signs of cancer. If there is residual stool or a poor preparation, our view is obscured, making it harder (or even impossible) to detect potentially serious issues.

2. Accurate Results Depend on Good Prep

Any remaining food or waste material can interfere with our ability to assess your GI tract accurately. Poor prep increases the chances of missing something important—or even misinterpreting what we see. In some cases, we may have to stop the procedure and reschedule it entirely.

3. Faster, Safer, and More Comfortable Exams

A clean prep means we can complete your exam more efficiently and with fewer complications. Poor prep often results in longer procedure times and can increase the risk of discomfort or even procedural complications.

4. Avoiding Repeat Procedures

When the prep quality is inadequate, we may not be able to finish the procedure or collect the information we need. That means rescheduling and repeating the entire process—prep and all—over again. Trust me, I want to avoid that as much as you do.

What Happens If You Don’t Prep Properly?

Unfortunately, we see this more often than we’d like. Here’s what can happen:

• The exam may be incomplete.
• We may miss small polyps or early warning signs.
• You may need a repeat procedure, which can delay diagnosis or treatment.

My Advice to Patients

I understand that the prep process may be unpleasant. Drinking the solution, sticking to a clear liquid diet, and rearranging your schedule isn’t easy. But I promise—it’s worth it.

When you take your prep seriously, you’re giving us the best possible chance to help you stay healthy. Colonoscopies and other GI screenings are powerful tools for preventing cancer, managing chronic conditions, and catching issues early. But they only work if we can do them right.

If you’re unsure about your prep instructions or if something doesn’t feel right, call our office. We’re here to help.

Final Thoughts

Procedure prep isn’t just a box to check — it’s a vital step in protecting your digestive health. Let’s work together to make your screening as smooth, effective, and meaningful as possible.

If you have concerns about your gut health, don’t hesitate to text 864-589-6714 or click here to make an appointment with one of our providers.

Written by Dr. Peter A. Naas, Gastroenterologist