FAQs

Endoscope Scope Cleaning Techniques
We realize that patients have concerns about endoscope processing and cleaning. Because our gastroenterologists are directors of the centers they perform cases at, this ensures that each technician is trained and follows the strictest scope cleaning techniques available. We only use the best scope cleaning machines and solutions. Your safety is our prime concern.
LAGI uses the most sophisticated and state of the art endoscope cleaning techniques to ensure that each patient is treated with a expertly processed endoscope. Our technicians have been trained directly by the endoscope manufactures to ensure that we have meet the highest standards and competency.
We follow the gastroenterology association guidelines for scope cleaning and reprocessing.
Anesthesia
We follow the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) and American Association of Nurse Anesthetists recommendations and guidelines for sedation and anesthesia for endoscopic procedures.
We use on board certified anesthesiologists and CRNAs for each and every case.
Preparation for your Colonoscopy
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Preparation for your Endoscopy
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Transportation to and from the Surgery Center
What to do the day before your procedure
When can I go back to work after my procedure?
What are the risks of an endoscopic procedure
Do I need to have medical insurance to see a doctor?
How many cases do you perform per year?
Our Gastroenterologists perform over 3000 endoscopic procedures annually and read more endoscopic capsule videos than any other academic medical center in the nation.This volume ensures that you are coming to a physician that has the experience to handle even the most difficult case.
Do you use Latest Endoscopic Technology?
LAGI physicians utilize only the latest endoscopic technology. Our endoscopes and accessories are from Olympus, Boston Scientific, and Wilson Cook.
We are also committed to staying current in the field that is why our physicians attend all the major medical conferences pertaining to gastroenterology.
How can I verify credentials?
Our physicians have clinical privileges at the major San Fernando Valley hospitals. This means that each of physicians are subjected to a very rigorous credentialing process and peer review. Since we are on staff at the hospitals this should be reassuring to our patients. The American Board of Internal Medicine www.abim.org is the website to verify our board certifications.
I am afraid that I will not wake up after the procedure?
What medications do you use for sedation and anesthesia?
Each patient is assessed by an anesthesiologist and he/she will determine the appropriate sedation plan. We use a combination of midazolam, fentanyl and propofol.
What if I my primary physician is recommending a colonoscopy but I am refusing?
Are there less invasive ways to screen for colon cancer?
What is virtual colonoscopy?
Do I need insurance to have a colonoscopy?
What does rectal bleeding signify?
I am having pain after meals?
I have diarrhea. What does this mean?
I am a student moving to the area to the area for college, can I transfer my care to you?
What is celiac disease?
I have anal and rectal pain. What does this mean?
My parent had colon polyps when should I have a colonoscopy?
I had bleeding but it stopped on its own, do I still need to see a GI doctor?