Gastroscopy is a common medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the inside of the digestive system.

The procedure involves inserting a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end, called a gastroscope, into the mouth and down the throat to the stomach. The purpose of this guide is to provide a comprehensive overview of gastroscopy, including its uses, preparation, procedure, risks, and recovery.

What is Gastroscopy Used For?

Gastroscopy can be used to diagnose a wide range of digestive disorders, including ulcers, inflammation, and cancer. The procedure can also be used to take tissue biopsies, remove polyps, and treat bleeding in the digestive tract.

Gastroscopy is usually recommended for patients who have symptoms such as:.

Abdominal pain
Heartburn
Nausea
Vomiting
Bloating
Bleeding from the digestive system

How to Prepare for Gastroscopy

Before undergoing gastroscopy, patients will need to prepare by following certain instructions provided by their doctor. These instructions can include:.

Fasting for a certain amount of time before the procedure (usually for at least 6 hours)
Avoiding certain medications that can interfere with the procedure
Arranging for someone to drive the patient home after the procedure, as the sedative used during the procedure can impair driving ability
Removing any dentures or other removable dental work
Wearing comfortable clothing that is easy to remove and put back on

The Gastroscopy Procedure

During the gastroscopy procedure, the patient will lie on their side, and a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end (the gastroscope) will be inserted into their mouth and guided down the throat and into the stomach.

The procedure typically takes around 30 minutes to complete, and the patient will be given a sedative to help them relax and minimize discomfort.

During the procedure, the doctor will carefully examine the lining of the digestive system. If any abnormalities are detected, samples of tissue may be taken for further analysis.

The doctor can also use the gastroscope to remove polyps or treat areas of bleeding.

Risks and Complications

Gastroscopy is generally a safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it does carry some risks. Some of the potential risks and complications of gastroscopy include:.

Reaction to the sedative
Bleeding
Puncture or tear in the digestive tract
Infection
Aspiration (inhaling food or stomach contents into the lungs)

After the Procedure

After the gastroscopy procedure, patients will usually need to rest for a short period of time to allow the sedative to wear off.

It is important to have someone available to drive the patient home, as they may still be feeling some effects of the sedative. Patients may experience some discomfort or bloating for a short period of time after the procedure, but this usually goes away within a few hours.

If tissue samples were taken during the procedure, patients will need to wait for the results before knowing whether any further treatment is needed.

Conclusion

Gastroscopy is a valuable medical procedure that can help doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of digestive disorders.

While the procedure does carry some risks and discomfort, it is generally safe and can provide vital information for patients and their healthcare providers. If you are experiencing symptoms of digestive problems, talk to your doctor about whether gastroscopy might be right for you.