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Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy is sometimes known also as an upper GI endoscopy. It is a procedure to examine the esophagus, stomach and the start of the small intestine (duodenum) with the use of an instrument called the gastroscope. The gastroscope has a long, thin and flexible tube with camera systems and capabilities to perform procedures such as biopsy and removal of polyps.
It is done by a gastroenterologist, who is a specialist with years of special training. It is usually done in the endoscopy center or operating theater of the hospital. Usually, the examination is done under moderate sedation, which means that you are “sleeping” during the procedure and will not remember the procedure.
Gastroscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the lining of your stomach, small intestine and esophagus. Your doctor may perform gastric scopes if you have symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, loss of appetite or loss of weight , but they don’t know what’s causing them.
Gastroscopy can help diagnose many conditions including gastric ulcers, inflammation, bleeding and tumors. It can also help detect less serious conditions like gastritis (inflamed stomach lining) or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
A gastroscopy is usually carried out as an outpatient procedure. This means you can go home on the same day. However, some people may need to stay overnight in hospital after a gastroscopy and eat a light meal before they go home.
The risk of gastroscopy is generally very low with less than 1% bleeding or perforation risk. You doctor will counsel you about the exact risk depending on the procedural complexity and your background medical condition.
Conclusion
In summary, a gastroscopy is a useful diagnostic tool for gastrointestinal conditions. It allows your gastroenterologist to examine the inside of your oesophagus, stomach and duodenum in detail.
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