Colonoscopy Procedure: How Long Does It Typically Take?

A standard colonoscopy can vary in duration depending on the individual patient's anatomy and overall condition. If the insertion process goes smoothly, the scope can reach the end of the ileum in as little as 110 seconds. However, to ensure a thorough examination and maintain quality control, the withdrawal phase usually takes at least 6 to 7 minutes. In ideal conditions, the entire procedure from insertion to removal may take around 10 minutes.

Certain factors can significantly extend the length of the procedure. For example, patients who are underweight—such as those weighing only 70 to 80 pounds—or those who are overweight—like a person around 5'4" weighing over 200 pounds—may experience a more complex process. Additionally, individuals who have had pelvic or gynecological surgeries, including cesarean sections, might develop intestinal adhesions, making the colonoscopy more challenging. In these cases, the procedure may take up to 30 minutes or even an hour.

Patient safety is always the top priority, especially in difficult cases. When dealing with particularly complex anatomies or obstructed pathways, it's not always necessary to reach the ileum's end. The medical team will focus on ensuring the patient's well-being while still obtaining the most useful diagnostic information possible.