top of page

Gastroscopy

What is a Gastroscopy?

Gastroscopy is an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy using a flexible camera passed through the mouth. This procedure enables your Doctor to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, i.e. the oesophagus (swallowing tube), stomach and duodenum (first portion of the small intestine) for any abnormalities more accurately than x-ray.

 

Gastroscopy is usually performed to evaluate symptoms such as:

  • Persistent upper abdominal pain

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Reflux

  • Weight loss
     

It is also the best test for finding the cause of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Ben in theatre.jpg

Gastroscopy is usually more accurate than x-rays for detecting inflammation, ulcers or tumours of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. Gastroscopy can detect early cancer and can distinguish between benign and malignant (cancer) conditions by performing biopsies (taking small tissue samples) of suspicious areas. Biopsies are taken for many reasons and do not necessarily mean that cancer is suspected.

 

If a narrowed area is found, it may be treated by stretching the region with a dilator passed down the endoscope. If small growths are found, these may be removed during the procedure.

 

Prior to your procedure you will be given a light anaesthetic via injection. It is sedation, not a general anaesthetic. This will make you sleepy and comfortable for the duration of your procedure. The small video camera called an endoscope, is then gently inserted through the mouth and produces images that are viewed on a high-definition screen by our specialists.

​

To ensure the safe and effective practice of Gastroscopy, specific preparation of your digestive system is required. For our Gastroscopy Preparation Instructions please click on the link below.

​

Preparation

 

Prior to the Test DO NOT EAT OR DRINK FOR AT LEAST 6 HOURS BEFORE YOUR TEST. For a morning procedure, we usually advise patients to fast (no food, water or medications) from midnight before the procedure.
 

Medications

You may be able to take your usual medications after your procedure. Please be guided by your GP, prescribing Specialist or your Endoscopist. If you have any concerns, please contact the centre prior to the day of your procedure.

​

  • Do not take oral medication on the day of the procedure (unless advised). Some oral medications may need to be ceased the day before the procedure, you will need to consult with the Doctor who manages your Diabetes. If you are on Insulin you need to discuss your regimen with the Doctor responsible for your diabetes management or with the Gastroenterologist  well before your procedure.
     

  • You may need to stop anti-coagulant medications, such as Warfarin, Iscover, Plavix, Apixaban or Aspirin. You need to discuss this with your Doctor, or your Gastroenterologist prior to your admission for the procedure.
     

Discharge

 

Please arrange for a friend or relative to collect you from reception and inform them to notify the receptionist of their arrival, about 2 hours after the test.

YOU CANNOT DRIVE OR LEAVE THE HOSPITAL ON YOUR OWN. You should not drive a car or operate machinery until the day following your procedure.

 

- Please wear comfortable loose fitting clothing;

- Bring your Medicare card, any private health insurance details, pension card (if applicable) and payment where needed (cash, cheque, credit or debit card).

- Patients who have an excess with their health fund must pay their excess to the hospital on the day of their procedure.

- Please note that credit card payments may carry an extra surcharge.

 

Consent
 

When having a procedure you are required to complete a consent form.
There is a pre-admission form available to complete below. Please complete the form prior to your procedure date.

​

Your Doctor is responsible for ensuring you are adequately informed of the proposed procedure, as well as informed financial consent. You will have the opportunity to discuss any questions you may have with the Doctor prior to your procedure.

bottom of page