What is a Gastroscopy?

 

Gastroscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to examine the upper part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

It involves the use of a flexible, thin tube with a light and camera at its tip, called a gastroscope, to visualize the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

 

Why You Would Need a Gastroscopy?

There are several reasons why you or your doctor might consider a gastroscopy:

1. Diagnose and evaluate symptoms: If you’re experiencing symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss, a gastroscopy can help identify the cause and determine the best course of action.

    

2. Investigate gastrointestinal bleeding: A gastroscopy can help locate the source of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as ulcers, tears, or tumors, and may even allow the doctor to treat the bleeding during the procedure.

    

3. Monitor pre-existing conditions: If you have been diagnosed with conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus, or celiac disease, a gastroscopy can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detect any changes or complications.

    

4. Biopsy and tissue samples: A gastroscopy allows the doctor to obtain tissue samples or perform a biopsy for further examination and testing, such as checking for the presence of H. pylori bacteria, which can cause ulcers and increase the risk of stomach cancer.

    

5. Remove foreign objects: In some cases, a gastroscopy may be necessary to remove accidentally swallowed objects or food that is stuck in the upper GI tract.

    

6. Dilate strictures: A gastroscopy can help in the dilation of narrow areas or strictures in the esophagus, which can be caused by scar tissue, inflammation, or tumors.

    

7. Treatment of certain conditions: Gastroscopy can be used for the treatment of some conditions, such as cauterizing bleeding vessels, removing polyps, or treating early-stage cancers.

It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing any concerning symptoms or if you have a known GI condition that may require monitoring. They will determine if a gastroscopy is the appropriate diagnostic tool for your situation.

 

 

What Happens During a Gastroscopy

During a gastroscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), a flexible, thin tube with a light and camera at its tip, called a gastroscope, is used to examine the upper part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

This includes the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). Here’s what happens during a gastroscopy:

• Preparation: Before the procedure, you will be asked to fast for 6-8 hours to ensure that the upper GI tract is empty, allowing for optimal visualization. You should also inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be temporarily stopped or adjusted.

   

• Sedation and anesthesia: Patients are usually given a sedative intravenously to help them relax and minimize discomfort during the procedure. Additionally, a local anesthetic spray may be used to numb the throat.

   

• Positioning: You will be asked to lie on your side, usually the left side, with your head slightly elevated to make it easier for the doctor to insert the gastroscope.

   

• Insertion of the gastroscope: The doctor gently inserts the gastroscope through your mouth, down the esophagus, and into the stomach and duodenum. You may be asked to swallow to help the gastroscope pass through the esophagus. A small plastic mouth guard is often placed between your teeth to protect them and the gastroscope.

   

• Examination: As the gastroscope is moved through your upper GI tract, the doctor examines the lining of the organs by transmitting images from the gastroscope to a monitor. The doctor may inflate your stomach with air to improve visibility and maneuverability of the gastroscope.

   

• Biopsy or intervention: If necessary, the doctor can take tissue samples (biopsies) for further analysis using small forceps passed through the gastroscope. The procedure can also be used for therapeutic purposes, such as removing polyps, treating bleeding ulcers, or dilating narrowed areas (strictures) of the esophagus or duodenum.

   

• Removal of the gastroscope: After the examination is complete, the gastroscope is carefully withdrawn from your upper GI tract and removed from your mouth.

The gastroscopy procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes. After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short period before being discharged.

You may experience mild side effects, such as a sore throat or bloating, which generally resolve within a day.

Due to the sedation used during the procedure, it is recommended that someone drive you home.

 

Benefits Of Gastroscopy:

 

Gastroscopy offers several benefits in diagnosing and treating various conditions affecting the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. These benefits include.

• Diagnostic: Gastroscopy is an effective tool for diagnosing various conditions affecting the upper GI tract, such as gastritis, ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), celiac disease, and tumors.
• Biopsy: The procedure allows doctors to obtain tissue samples (biopsies) for further analysis, which can help in diagnosing conditions like Helicobacter pylori infection, inflammation, or cancer.
• Therapeutic interventions: In some cases, gastroscopy can also be used for therapeutic purposes, such as removing polyps, treating bleeding ulcers, or dilating narrowed areas (strictures) of the esophagus or duodenum.

Risks And Potential Complications:

 

While gastroscopy is generally considered a safe procedure, there are some risks and potential complications, including:

• Reaction to sedation: Some patients may experience an adverse reaction to the sedative medication.
• Infection: In rare cases, an infection can occur, especially if a biopsy is taken.
• Bleeding: Minor bleeding can occur at the site of a biopsy or polyp removal, but it is usually self-limiting.
• Perforation: There is a small risk of perforation (a hole) in the upper GI tract, which may require surgery to repair.

After the procedure, patients are monitored for a short period before being discharged.

They may experience mild side effects, such as a sore throat or bloating, which generally resolve within a day. Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home due to the sedation used during the procedure.

Results from the gastroscopy are usually available within a few days, and the doctor will discuss the findings and any necessary treatment options with the patient.

 

 

Contact Dr. Schneider

In conclusion, gastroscopy is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool for examining the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

It allows doctors to visualize the lining of these organs, diagnose various conditions, take biopsies for further analysis, and even perform certain therapeutic interventions.

The procedure is minimally invasive, generally safe, and well-tolerated by patients, with only a few potential risks and complications.

Preparation for the procedure typically involves fasting for several hours and discussing medications with your doctor. The procedure itself takes around 15-30 minutes, during which patients are sedated for comfort.

Although some mild side effects, such as a sore throat or bloating, may be experienced after the procedure, these usually resolve quickly.

Gastroscopy plays a crucial role in identifying and treating a range of upper GI tract conditions, contributing to better patient outcomes and overall gastrointestinal health.

It is essential to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor to ensure that you are well-informed about the procedure and its potential benefits for your specific situation.

Dr. Schneider is a medical professional with many years of experience in the field. 

His services include endoscopy procedures such as, gastroscopy, colonoscopy and video capsule endoscopy.

If you are concerned about any of the above diseases, talk to Dr. Schneider to book your appointment.

For further reading on the procedures we perform, please visit our website or contact Dr. Schneider on 011-482-3010.