How long is the colonoscopy procedure?

A typical colonoscopy lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, according to WebMD. The time taken includes dispensation of medications to help the patient feel drowsy along with the actual procedure. The patient lies on his back while the physician inserts a tubular instrument into the rectum and the large intestine.

Some patients are at the medical center for up to two hours to complete their colonoscopies, according to Colon & Rectal Surgery Associates. Some patients require longer for the sedation to take effect. The way a patient feels after the procedure also affects how long he stays at the clinic.