Gastroscopy

What is a gastroscopy?

A gastroscopy, also known as an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy or oesophago-gastroduodenoscopy (OGD), is a procedure used to examine the inside of your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). It is performed using a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, which has a camera at the end to provide clear images.

This procedure helps to diagnose and sometimes treat conditions affecting the upper digestive system.

When is a gastroscopy recommended?

You may need a gastroscopy if you have symptoms that could indicate an issue with your digestive system. It is commonly used to investigate:

• Persistent abdominal pain
• Long-term heartburn or acid reflux
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting blood or passing dark stools (signs of internal bleeding)
• Anaemia caused by low iron levels

A gastroscopy can also be used to take tissue samples (biopsies) for further testing or to treat conditions like bleeding ulcers or remove abnormal growths, such as polyps.

Preparing for a gastroscopy

You will be asked to fast for at least 6 to 8 hours before your gastroscopy to ensure your stomach is empty. This makes it easier for the doctor to examine your digestive tract. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully.

If you have diabetes or take medications such as blood thinners (including aspirin), let the doctor know during your consultation. You may need to adjust or stop these medications temporarily before the procedure.

Before the gastroscopy begins, you will be asked to sign a consent form after discussing the procedure, its benefits, and potential risks with the doctor.

What does the procedure involve?

A gastroscopy is typically done as an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day. It takes around 20 minutes to complete.

To make you comfortable, your throat may be numbed with a local anaesthetic spray. If you choose sedation, a small needle or cannula will be placed in a vein in your hand to administer the sedative, which helps you relax during the procedure.

You will lie on your side while the doctor gently passes the endoscope through your mouth, down your oesophagus, and into your stomach and duodenum. The camera on the endoscope sends images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine your upper digestive system closely.

If needed, small instruments can be passed through the endoscope to take biopsies or perform treatments, such as stopping bleeding ulcers or removing polyps. Most patients do not find the procedure painful, although you may feel mild bloating or a slight gagging sensation.

What are the potential risks and complications?

Gastroscopy is a safe and routine procedure, but like any medical test, there are some risks, including:

• Sore throat – this is common and temporary.
• Bleeding – rare, but may occur if a biopsy is taken or a treatment is performed. Bleeding typically stops on its own.
• Perforation (tear) – very rare but may require additional treatment or surgery.
• Reaction to sedation – mild reactions like drowsiness or nausea are more common, while serious reactions are extremely rare.

If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or difficulty swallowing after the procedure, contact your doctor for advice.

After the procedure

After your gastroscopy, you will be monitored for a short time while any sedation wears off. You should not drive, operate machinery, or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours if you’ve had sedation. Make sure to arrange for someone to take you home.

Most people can eat and drink as normal after the procedure, though starting with light meals is recommended. It’s normal to have a mild sore throat, bloating, or wind for a few hours after the gastroscopy, but these symptoms usually go away quickly.

The doctor will explain the findings immediately after the procedure. If biopsies were taken, it may take a few days to receive the results, which will be discussed at a follow-up appointment. If treatments, such as polyp removal, were performed during the gastroscopy, you will be given specific aftercare instructions.

Benefits of a gastroscopy

• Provides clear and accurate information about your digestive system.
• Detects conditions like ulcers, inflammation, and cancer early.
• Allows for immediate treatment, such as stopping bleeding or removing polyps.
• Minimally invasive and typically completed within 20 minutes.

A gastroscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating upper digestive issues, giving you peace of mind and helping to address symptoms effectively.