Question 1

What is a colonoscopy?

Accepted Answer

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the inside of the colon (large intestine) using a thin, flexible tube and a camera. It is primarily used to screen for colon cancer, detect polyps, and diagnose conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or unexplained digestive symptoms.

Question 2

How long does a colonoscopy take​?

Accepted Answer

A colonoscopy typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, you should plan to be at the facility for at least two to three hours to allow time for check-in, preparation, and recovery from sedation.

Question 3

How to prepare for a colonoscopy?

Accepted Answer

Proper preparation is key to a successful colonoscopy. This includes adjusting your diet a few days before and taking a prescribed bowel preparation (laxative) to cleanse your colon thoroughly. Your doctor will provide additional instructions based on your medical history and needs.

Question 4

What can you not eat five days before a colonoscopy?

Accepted Answer

Five days before your colonoscopy, you should avoid high-fiber foods such as raw vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains, and tough meats. These can be harder to fully clear from the colon. Your doctor may provide a detailed diet plan, typically switching to low-fiber foods and a clear liquid diet before the procedure.

Question 5

Does a colonoscopy hurt?

Accepted Answer

A colonoscopy is not painful; most patients receive sedation to ensure comfort. Some may experience mild bloating or cramping afterward due to the air used to inflate the colon during the procedure, but this typically resolves quickly.

Question 6

What happens during a colonoscopy?

Accepted Answer

During a colonoscopy, a sedated patient lies on their side while a gastroenterologist inserts a thin, flexible tube (colonoscope) into the rectum. The colonoscope has a small camera that transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the colon for abnormalities. If polyps or suspicious tissue are found, they can be removed or biopsied. The process generally takes less than an hour, and patients recover briefly before going home.

Question 7

What is HemWell™?

Accepted Answer

A nonsurgical, FDA-registered treatment for internal hemorrhoids, HemWell™ uses a gentle electrical current to target the hemorrhoid tissue to promote healing and reduce inflammation, often without anesthesia, incisions, or downtime. It’s an effective, in-office solution for patients experiencing rectal bleeding, itching, or discomfort from hemorrhoids.

Question 8

Is HemWell™ painful?

Accepted Answer

Most patients report little to no pain during or after the HemWell™ procedure. The treatment is quick and well-tolerated, and there's no need for sedation or anesthesia. Unlike traditional hemorrhoid procedures, HemWell™ is designed to minimize discomfort both during the procedure and throughout recovery.

Question 9

Is the procedure safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, HemWell™ is a safe, FDA-registered procedure with a strong track record of success. It’s performed in-office by trained gastroenterologists and requires no cutting, cauterizing, or suturing. Because it’s minimally invasive, the risk of complications is extremely low compared to surgical hemorrhoid treatments.

Question 10

Does the procedure hurt?

Accepted Answer

Most patients find the HemWell™ procedure to be virtually painless. You may feel slight warmth or pressure during the treatment, but it’s typically mild and brief. Most patients can resume their day immediately following the appointment.

Question 11

How many HemWell™ procedures are necessary?

Accepted Answer

The number of treatments needed depends on the severity and number of hemorrhoids. While some patients see relief after just one session, others may benefit from several treatments spaced a few weeks apart. Your NYGA provider will recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your condition and response to the procedure.

Question 12

How soon can I return to my normal activities?

Accepted Answer

One of the benefits of HemWell™ is that there’s no downtime. Most patients return to work, exercise, and regular activities immediately after the procedure. Mild symptoms such as temporary rectal pressure or slight irritation may occur but typically resolve quickly without the need for medication.

Question 13

Where is HemWell™ hemorrhoid treatment offered in NYC?

Accepted Answer

At NYGA, we proudly offer HemWell™ as a modern, minimally invasive option for treating internal hemorrhoids. Our expert team provides compassionate, discreet care in a comfortable office setting—no surgery, downtime, or hassle.

Question 14

What is an intestinal ultrasound?

Accepted Answer

Intestinal ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging test that uses sound waves to visualize the small and large intestines in real time. It allows gastroenterologists to assess inflammation, wall thickness, and blood flow in the bowel without radiation or invasive procedures. It’s commonly used to help diagnose and monitor inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Question 15

What happens during an intestinal ultrasound?

Accepted Answer

The procedure is comfortable and straightforward. You’ll lie on an exam table while a water-based gel is applied to your abdomen. A handheld probe (called a transducer) is gently moved over the area to capture images of your intestines. There are no needles, no sedation, and no recovery time required.

Question 16

What conditions can intestinal ultrasound detect?

Accepted Answer

Intestinal ultrasound is beneficial in evaluating inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. It can detect bowel wall thickening, increased blood flow (a sign of inflammation), and other signs of active disease. It’s also helpful in monitoring treatment response over time and may help identify complications such as strictures or abscesses.

Question 17

How long does the procedure take?

Accepted Answer

An intestinal ultrasound usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete. It’s performed right in the office and doesn’t require special preparation or recovery time, making it a convenient option for ongoing care and disease monitoring.

Question 18

What are the benefits of an intestinal ultrasound?

Accepted Answer

Intestinal ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive, and radiation-free way to assess bowel inflammation and monitor IBD activity. It delivers real-time results, requires no sedation or prep, and can be repeated regularly, making it ideal for diagnosis and ongoing disease management.

Question 19

How do I know if I should get an intestinal ultrasound?

Accepted Answer

If you have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or are experiencing ongoing symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss, an intestinal ultrasound may help evaluate your condition. Your NYGA provider will determine whether this test is appropriate based on your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment goals.

Question 20

Where can I get an intestinal ultrasound in NYC

Accepted Answer

NYGA is one of the few gastroenterology practices in the region offering intestinal ultrasound as part of our advanced IBD care. Our skilled team uses this cutting-edge technology to provide accurate, real-time assessments without sedation, radiation, or lengthy prep, all from our 5th Avenue location.

Question 21

What is infusion therapy?

Accepted Answer

Infusion therapy is a method of delivering medication directly into your bloodstream through an IV. For IBD patients, this approach is used to administer biologic drugs that target inflammation more efficiently than oral medications. The infusion medications we currently offer to help manage moderate to severe Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Infliximab (Remicade® or biosimilars), Vedolizumab (Entyvio®), Ustekinumab (Stelara® ), Risankizumab (Skyrizi®), Mirikizumab-mrkz (Omvoh®), Guselkumab (Tremfeya®),

Question 22

How do you know if infusion therapy is right for you?

Accepted Answer

Suppose you’ve been diagnosed with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, your gastroenterologist may explore other treatment options such as infusion or injectable therapies. These targeted approaches can help manage symptoms and inflammation, and in some cases, patients may begin with infusions and later transition to injectables. For your convenience, we provide access to an in-office infusion suite, or we can coordinate treatment at an alternate location, such as an outpatient center or even in the comfort of your home. Our goal is to make your care as effective, comfortable, and accessible as possible.

Question 23

What are the benefits of infusion therapy for IBD?

Accepted Answer

As one of the leading IBD practices in the country, we are proud to offer expert, patient-centered care for those living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Infusion therapy can help reduce inflammation, promote long-term remission, and improve quality of life for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It delivers medication directly into the bloodstream, providing fast results.

Question 24

How long does infusion therapy take?

Accepted Answer

Most infusion sessions take between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the specific medication. Patients typically relax in a comfortable setting during treatment and can return to normal activities afterward.

Question 25

How do I know if I should get infusion therapy?

Accepted Answer

Your gastroenterologist will consider your symptoms, disease severity, and treatment history to determine if infusion therapy is appropriate. Routine monitoring helps ensure it remains effective and well tolerated.

Question 26

Does insurance cover infusion therapy?

Accepted Answer

Most insurance plans, including Medicare and those offered by commercial providers, provide coverage for infusion therapy. Our NYGA team can help verify your benefits and coordinate prior authorizations to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Question 27

What is infusion therapy?

Accepted Answer

Infusion therapy is a method of delivering medication directly into your bloodstream through an IV. For IBD patients, this approach is used to administer biologic drugs that target inflammation more efficiently than oral medications. The infusion medications we currently offer to help manage moderate to severe Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Infliximab (Remicade® or biosimilars), Vedolizumab (Entyvio®), Ustekinumab (Stelara® ), Risankizumab (Skyrizi®), Mirikizumab-mrkz (Omvoh®), Guselkumab (Tremfeya®).

Question 28

How do you know if infusion therapy is right for you?

Accepted Answer

Suppose you’ve been diagnosed with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, your gastroenterologist may explore other treatment options such as infusion or injectable therapies. These targeted approaches can help manage symptoms and inflammation, and in some cases, patients may begin with infusions and later transition to injectables. For your convenience, we provide access to an in-office infusion suite, or we can coordinate treatment at an alternate location, such as an outpatient center or even in the comfort of your home. Our goal is to make your care as effective, comfortable, and accessible as possible.

Question 29

What are the benefits of infusion therapy for IBD?

Accepted Answer

As one of the leading IBD practices in the country, we are proud to offer expert, patient-centered care for those living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Infusion therapy can help reduce inflammation, promote long-term remission, and improve quality of life for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It delivers medication directly into the bloodstream, providing fast results.

Question 30

How long does infusion therapy take?

Accepted Answer

Most infusion sessions take between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the specific medication. Patients typically relax in a comfortable setting during treatment and can return to normal activities afterward.

Question 31

How do I know if I should get infusion therapy?

Accepted Answer

Your gastroenterologist will consider your symptoms, disease severity, and treatment history to determine if infusion therapy is appropriate. Routine monitoring helps ensure it remains effective and well tolerated.

Question 32

Does insurance cover infusion therapy?

Accepted Answer

Most insurance plans, including Medicare and those offered by commercial providers, provide coverage for infusion therapy. Our NYGA team can help verify your benefits and coordinate prior authorizations to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Question 33

What is liver elastography?

Accepted Answer

Liver elastography is a noninvasive imaging test that measures the stiffness of your liver. It’s used to assess liver health and detect signs of scarring (fibrosis), which may result from conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or long-term alcohol use.

Question 34

How does liver elastography work?

Accepted Answer

This test utilizes ultrasound-based technology to administer painless vibrations to your liver. The speed at which these vibrations travel through the tissue helps determine its stiffness; firmer tissue can indicate fibrosis or liver damage.

Question 35

Is liver elastography safe?

Accepted Answer

Liver elastography is a safe, noninvasive procedure that does not involve radiation, injections, or recovery time. Most patients tolerate it well, and it can be repeated over time to monitor changes in liver health.

Question 36

What happens during a liver elastography procedure?

Accepted Answer

You’ll lie comfortably on an exam table while a small probe is placed against your skin over the liver. You may feel a light tapping sensation during the test, but it isn’t painful. The procedure typically takes 10 to 15 minutes in the office.

Question 37

How do you prepare for a liver elastography test?

Accepted Answer

Preparation is simple. In most cases, you’ll need to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before your appointment. Your gastroenterologist will provide additional instructions based on your health history or other scheduled tests.

Question 38

What is liver elastography?

Accepted Answer

Liver elastography is a noninvasive imaging test that measures the stiffness of your liver. It’s used to assess liver health and detect signs of scarring (fibrosis), which may result from conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or long-term alcohol use.

Question 39

How does liver elastography work?

Accepted Answer

This test utilizes ultrasound-based technology to administer painless vibrations to your liver. The speed at which these vibrations travel through the tissue helps determine its stiffness; firmer tissue can indicate fibrosis or liver damage.

Question 40

Is liver elastography safe?

Accepted Answer

Liver elastography is a safe, noninvasive procedure that does not involve radiation, injections, or recovery time. Most patients tolerate it well, and it can be repeated over time to monitor changes in liver health.

Question 41

What happens during a liver elastography procedure?

Accepted Answer

You’ll lie comfortably on an exam table while a small probe is placed against your skin over the liver. You may feel a light tapping sensation during the test, but it isn’t painful. The procedure typically takes 10 to 15 minutes in the office.

Question 42

How do you prepare for a liver elastography test?

Accepted Answer

Preparation is simple. In most cases, you’ll need to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before your appointment. Your gastroenterologist will provide additional instructions based on your health history or other scheduled tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What You Should Know

Anorectal Manometry

What is an anorectal manometry?

How to prepare for an anorectal manometry?

Are you awake for anorectal manometry?

What Happens During the Procedure?

Is anorectal manometry safe?

Does an anorectal manometry hurt?

What should I do after an anorectal manometry test?

Breath Test

What is a breath test?

Can I drink water before an H. pylori breath test?

How should I prepare for the H. pylori breath test?

How long does an H. pylori breath test take?

How should I prepare for a hydrogen breath test?

What does a breath test diagnose?

How does a breath test work?

Colonoscopy

What is a colonoscopy?

How long does a colonoscopy take​?

How to prepare for a colonoscopy?

What can you not eat five days before a colonoscopy?

Does a colonoscopy hurt?

What happens during a colonoscopy?

Esophageal Manometry

What is esophageal manometry?

Are you sedated for esophageal manometry?

How long does an esophageal manometry take?

What does the esophageal manometry test for?

How painful is esophageal manometry?

What is the prep for esophageal manometry?

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

What is a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

Can a flexible sigmoidoscopy detect cancer?

How painful is a flexible sigmoidoscopy without sedation?

Can I eat before a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

Do you need a bowel prep for a sigmoidoscopy?

Why would you have a sigmoidoscopy instead of a colonoscopy?

Hemwell™

What is HemWell™?

Is HemWell™ painful?

Is the procedure safe?

Does the procedure hurt?

How many HemWell™ procedures are necessary?

How soon can I return to my normal activities?

Where is HemWell™ hemorrhoid treatment offered in NYC?

Infusion Therapy for IBD

What is infusion therapy?

How do you know if infusion therapy is right for you?

What are the benefits of infusion therapy for IBD?

How long does infusion therapy take?

How do I know if I should get infusion therapy?

Does insurance cover infusion therapy?

Intestinal Ultrasound (IUS)

What is an intestinal ultrasound?

What happens during an intestinal ultrasound?

What conditions can intestinal ultrasound detect?

How long does the intestinal ultrasound take?

What are the benefits of an intestinal ultrasound?

How do I know if I should get an intestinal ultrasound?

Where can I get an intestinal ultrasound in NYC?

Liver Elastography

What is liver elastography?

How does liver elastography work?

Is liver elastography safe?

What happens during a liver elastography procedure?

How do you prepare for a liver elastography test?

Upper Endoscopy

What is an upper endoscopy?

What does an upper endoscopy show?

How long does an upper endoscopy take?

Will I be asleep during upper endoscopy?

What are the benefits of getting an upper endoscopy?

How do I prepare for an upper endoscopy?

Video Capsule Endoscopy

What is a video capsule endoscopy?

What conditions can be diagnosed using a video capsule endoscopy?

How do I prepare for a video capsule endoscopy?

How does a video capsule endoscopy work?

How long does a colonoscopy take?