A gastroscopy is a test to look inside your oesophagus (the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach), your stomach and the first part of your small bowel (duodenum). You may have a gastroscopy to help find what’s causing your symptoms. You can also have certain treatments during a gastroscopy.
Gastroscopy is usually done to investigate symptoms such as indigestion, nausea, or difficulty swallowing. It can show if there is inflammation, an ulcer a polyp or other growth.
Gastroscopy Procedure
An upper endoscopy, also known as a “gastroscopy,” is a medical procedure to inspect your upper digestive system visually. This examination is conducted using a slender, flexible tube equipped with a tiny camera at its tip, referred to as an “endoscope.”
Gastroenterologists are specialists in digestive system diseases, employ endoscopy for both diagnostic and, in some cases, therapeutic purposes, particularly for conditions affecting the oesophagus, stomach, and the initial portion of the small intestine (duodenum). The medical terminology for an upper endoscopy is “oesophagus-gastro-duodenoscopy.”
Types of Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
There are two primary types of gastroscopy:
Classic Gastroscopy: In this approach, the endoscope is inserted through the mouth.
Transnasal Gastroscopy (also known as “Babyscopy”): This method employs a thinner endoscope inserted through the nose.
It’s important to note that babyscopy is exclusively used for diagnostic purposes. Consult with your doctor to determine which procedure is recommended for your specific case.
What is gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy, also referred to as an upper endoscopy, is a medical procedure employed to examine the inner workings of your upper digestive system, which encompasses the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the initial section of the small intestine, known as the duodenum.
Why is Gastroscopy Performed?
A gastroscopy serves various purposes, including:
Investigation of Symptoms: It is used to investigate symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Diagnosis of Conditions: Gastroscopy aids in diagnosing conditions like anaemia, bleeding, inflammation, diarrhoea, and cancers affecting the digestive system.
Treatment of Digestive Issues: It is also employed to address problems within the digestive system, such as bleeding ulcers, constricted oesophagus, and the removal of polyps.
How is upper endoscopy conducted?
During a gastroscopy, you will be positioned on your side on an examination table. Your physician will introduce a slender, flexible tube equipped with a camera at its tip, known as an endoscope, either through your mouth or nose. The endoscope will be gently manoeuvred down your oesophagus and into your stomach and duodenum.
Images captured by the endoscope’s camera will be displayed on a monitor for the doctor to examine. If required, your physician might take a small tissue sample (biopsy) or perform necessary treatments.
What are the risks associated with upper endoscopy?
While gastroscopy is generally considered a very safe procedure, there are minimal risks, such as:
Aspiration: The possibility of inhaling food or fluids into the lungs.
Allergic Reactions: Occasional allergic reactions to sedation
Bleeding: Minimal risk of bleeding.
Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection.
Tears in the Digestive Tract: On rare occasions, the procedure might cause tears in the digestive tract.
Preparing for Endoscopy
Before undergoing endoscopy, your doctor will review your medical and surgical history, including your current medications and supplements. Be sure to disclose all medications and supplements you are taking.
You will be required to sign a consent form, acknowledging your understanding of the procedure’s risks and granting permission for it to be performed. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor regarding the procedure’s necessity, risks, execution, or implications. Your doctor will provide specific preparation instructions for your gastroscopy, which may include:
Fasting: You may be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for four to eight hours before the procedure to ensure an empty stomach.
Medication Adjustment: Some medications, particularly blood-thinning ones, may need to be temporarily discontinued in the days leading up to the endoscopy. This precaution reduces the risk of bleeding during the procedure. Patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure will receive tailored instructions regarding their medications.
Sedation
Sedation is strongly recommended for classic gastroscopy, as it significantly improves patient tolerance. Patients undergoing gastroscopy will receive a sedative to induce relaxation and comfort during the procedure.
The gastroscopy will typically be conducted in a dedicated endoscopy unit within the day ward. If you receive sedation, plan for your recovery period, during which your mental alertness may be compromised. Arrange for transportation home and consider taking the day off from work. Avoid making important personal or financial decisions for the next 24 hours.
In contrast, a babyscopy often does not necessitate sedation and can be performed in a specialized room within the outpatient department.
Post-Gastroscopy Care
Following the gastroscopy, you will be transported to a recovery area for monitoring. You may experience temporary sensations like bloating, gas, or a sore throat, which typically improve within a few hours.
In most cases, you should be able to consume food and liquids shortly after the procedure, but it is crucial to adhere to your doctor’s guidance. If you encounter any of the following symptoms subsequent to your gastroscopy, promptly contact your physician:
Fever
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Black or very dark-coloured stool
Difficulty swallowing
Severe or persistent abdominal pain
Vomiting
Gastroscopy Care at Saudi German Health
Gastroscopy is a safe and effective means of diagnosing and addressing issues within the upper digestive system. If your physician recommends a gastroscopy, don’t hesitate to inquire about both the potential risks and benefits associated with the procedure.
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