What is a gastroscopy?
A Gastroscopy is a test which allows a doctor to look at the lining of the oesophagus (gullet), stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) by using a gastroscope. How is it done? A gastroscope is a long flexible tube, about the thickness of a little finger) with a bright light on the end. In some cases biopsies, (small pieces of tissue) may be taken with tiny forceps and sent to the laboratory. Taking a biopsy is painless and very safe. Preparation To allow a clear view, the stomach must be completely empty, so it is important that you do not have anything to eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the test. Please continue to take essential drugs, such as steroids, heart tablets, etc. as usual on the day of the procedure with minimal water (20mls) If you are diabetic or take anticoagulants (foe example Warfarin) please inform the department when you receive your appointment. Please bring a list of any medication you are currently taking. What to expect When you arri
A gastroscopy is also called an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) by physicians. With this test it is possible to see inside of the esophagus, the stomach and the duodenum. In doing so it is also possible to take small tissue samples (biopsy) from the mucuous membrane in order to examine them under the microscope. For the test a special endoscope is used, the so-called gastroscope. Today a video endoscope is mostly used which has a video chip attached to the top point and which then transmits a picture to a monitor. This test can also be carried out ambulatory in a practice or in a hospital. Just like with a colonoscopy, the patient can ask for a light sedative, so that the test is more bearable.
Gastroscopy is a procedure that enables your physician to examine the lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract for abnormalities by inserting a flexible tube that is about the thickness of your finger into the mouth and advancing it slowly into the stomach and first part of the small intestine. What preparation is required? The stomach must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and complete. Your physician will give you detailed instructions regarding the dietary restrictions to be followed. Most commonly this is only for you not to eat or drink for 6 hours before the procedure. What about my current medications? Most medications may be continued as usual, but some medications can interfere with the examination. It is therefore best to inform your physician of your current medications as well as any allergies to medications several days prior to the examination. Aspirin products, arthritis medications, anticoagulants (blood thinners), insulin, and iron products are exa
