Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is an upper gastrointestinal tract examination in which the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum are visualized. The procedure is performed using a flexible, thin tube-like optical instrument that allows direct inspection of the inner surfaces of these organs. If necessary, tissue samples can be taken immediately, benign lesions removed, or bleeding stopped.

When should you have a gastroscopy?

• upper abdominal pain, heartburn, belching, or a sensation of a lump in the throat
• difficulty swallowing, eating problems, recurrent nausea or vomiting
• unexplained weight loss or anemia
• vomiting blood
• need for post-treatment or post-surgical follow-up

Does employer supplementary insurance cover the procedure and anesthesia?

Yes. In this case, you must first have a telephone consultation with a general surgeon, during which medical history is collected and the need for the procedure is assessed.

Preparation for the examination

• Do not eat or drink for 6–8 hours before the procedure (except water)
• You may drink water up to 2 hours before the procedure
• Do not smoke for 6–8 hours before the procedure
• Remove lip and tongue jewelry, glasses, and removable dentures before the examination
• Inform the doctor in advance if you are taking blood-thinning medications, to assess whether temporary discontinuation is needed
• Regular medications may be taken in the morning with a small amount of water, but no later than 2 hours before the procedure

How is the procedure performed?

The procedure usually takes 5–15 minutes. You will lie on your left side, and the throat will be numbed with a spray or gel. During the examination, a small amount of gas is introduced into the stomach to expand it, which may cause a temporary feeling of fullness.

You should focus on breathing; the airways remain free throughout the procedure. Taking biopsies or removing polyps is not painful.

If desired, the procedure can be performed under sedation or general anesthesia.

What is anesthesia?

• Under anesthesia, you will be fully asleep and will not remember the procedure. All vital reflexes remain intact, and you breathe independently. You will have no memory or sensation of the examination.
• You may go home only with a companion, and you must not drive for 24 hours.

Preparation for anesthesia

• Do not eat or drink (including coffee, milk, or juice) for 6 hours before the procedure
• Up to 2 hours before, you may drink only clear fluids in small amounts (water, tea, diluted juice)
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after the procedure

How will you feel after the procedure?

• Mild sore throat, bloating, or discomfort usually resolve within a few hours.
• If local anesthesia was used, wait at least 20 minutes before eating or drinking.
• If a biopsy was taken, avoid hot food and hot drinks.