A gastroscopy is an endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine (duodenum). The procedure is used to determine the cause of symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, pain, heartburn, bleeding, or persistent discomfort in the upper abdomen.
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A gastroscopy may be recommended if you have symptoms in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract that require further examination. The procedure allows the doctor to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum and thus determine the cause of your symptoms.
A gastroscopy can be used, among other things, for:
The examination helps the doctor make an accurate diagnosis and determine whether treatment or further tests are needed.
During a gastroscopy, the doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube (gastroscope) through the mouth and down the esophagus into the stomach and duodenum. The camera at the tip of the tube transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the mucous membrane thoroughly.
If necessary, small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken during the examination. This usually does not hurt. Small polyps or other abnormalities may also be removed if deemed necessary.
The exam itself takes about 10 minutes, but the duration may vary depending on whether tissue samples need to be taken or minor treatments need to be performed.
Before the study
To ensure the examination can be performed, it is important that you follow the instructions you have received regarding fasting and medication. Your stomach must be empty so that the doctor has the best possible view during the examination and to reduce the risk of stomach contents entering the airways. If you are taking blood-thinning medication or have other medical conditions that may affect the examination, you will receive guidance on this before the day of the examination.
The study itself
On the day of your examination, you will be greeted by the staff, who will go over the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have. The gastroscopy itself is performed using a thin, flexible scope that is guided through your mouth and down through your esophagus to your stomach and duodenum. The procedure typically lasts about 10 minutes, but may take longer if tissue samples need to be taken or minor treatments need to be performed. If arranged in advance, the procedure can be performed under general anesthesia.
After the study
After the examination, you can usually go home shortly afterward. If you have been given sedatives or were under general anesthesia, you will be monitored before being discharged, and you must not drive yourself for the first 24 hours. If tissue samples were taken, arrangements will be made with you regarding how and when you will receive the results. It is normal to experience mild throat irritation or a feeling of bloating after the examination, but these symptoms usually subside quickly.
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