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Answers to common questions about our gastroenterology services
Our clinic has a dedicated board-certified anesthesiology team. We typically use short-acting sedation (painless anesthesia), allowing patients to sleep comfortably through the entire procedure. The process is painless and very safe. Most patients wake up quickly after the exam and can go home the same day. Our anesthesiologist will evaluate your health condition before the procedure to ensure the safety of anesthesia.
Yes, Dr. Tong and his team are fluent in Mandarin (Putonghua), Shanghainese, and English, ensuring seamless communication with patients from diverse language backgrounds. We understand the importance of clear communication in healthcare and strive to ensure every patient fully understands their condition and treatment plan.
According to the latest guidelines from the American Cancer Society, average-risk individuals should begin their first colonoscopy screening at age 45. You should start earlier if you have: a family history of colon cancer or colon polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), or symptoms such as bloody stool, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained abdominal pain. We recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Tong to develop a personalized screening plan.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD): You must fast (no food or water) for 6-8 hours before the procedure to ensure your stomach is empty.
Colonoscopy: Bowel preparation is required in advance. Typically, you should begin a low-residue diet 1-2 days before the exam and take a bowel cleansing preparation the evening before (we will provide detailed instructions). A clean colon is essential for accurate results.
Please inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, especially blood thinners or diabetes medications, as adjustments may be needed.
Due to sedation, you cannot drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions on the day of your procedure. Please arrange for a family member or friend to provide transportation. Most patients can resume normal activities and diet within 24 hours. If you experience any unusual symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain or bleeding, please contact us immediately.
We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and various commercial insurance plans. Our staff will help you verify your insurance coverage when you schedule your appointment. Even without insurance, we offer reasonable self-pay rates. We recommend calling us before your visit to confirm insurance matters: 718-886-9819 or 718-321-0183.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is an advanced diagnostic tool that combines endoscopy with ultrasound technology. Unlike a standard endoscopy that only views the surface of the digestive tract, EUS uses ultrasound waves to "see through" the digestive tract wall to examine deeper tissue structures, including the pancreas, bile ducts, and lymph nodes. This is invaluable for diagnosing pancreatic diseases, staging digestive tract tumors, and performing precise tissue biopsies. Dr. Tong is a certified EUS specialist.
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is an endoscopic technique that serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It is primarily used to address bile duct and pancreatic duct problems, such as bile duct stones, strictures, and tumors. ERCP can remove bile duct stones and place biliary stents without surgery. This is an advanced endoscopic technique requiring specialized skills - Dr. Tong is one of the few physicians in the United States licensed in therapeutic endoscopy.
Yes, in most cases removal is recommended. While not all polyps will become cancerous, certain types (such as adenomatous polyps) do carry a risk of developing into colon cancer. When polyps are discovered during a colonoscopy, they are usually removed on the spot - this is a safe preventive measure. The removed polyps are sent for pathological examination to determine their type and whether there are signs of cancer transformation. Based on the type and number of polyps, your doctor will recommend an appropriate follow-up interval.
You can schedule an appointment through any of the following methods:
By Phone: Call 718-886-9819 or 718-321-0183
Online: Visit our Contact page and fill out the appointment form
Walk-In: Visit our clinic at 136-68 Roosevelt Ave., 3FL, Flushing, NY 11354
Our office hours are: Mon, Wed, Fri 9:00am-5:00pm; Tue, Thu, Sat 8:00am-5:00pm; Sun 9:00am-5:00pm. Our staff will schedule a convenient appointment time for you as soon as possible.
Call us anytime - our team is ready to answer your questions
