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How Is the Gastroscopy Procedure Performed?

Gastroscopy is a medical test that allows doctors to look inside the upper part of the digestive system. This includes the food pipe (oesophagus), stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. The test is done using a thin, soft tube with a small camera and light at the end. This tube is gently passed through the mouth and down the throat.

Gastroscopy helps doctors find the cause of stomach pain, heartburn, vomiting, or trouble in swallowing food. It can also help detect ulcers, swelling, bleeding, or early signs of cancer. In some cases, doctors may take a small tissue sample during the test for further checking. The procedure is usually quick and safe, and most patients can go home the same day. Sedation or throat spray is often used to make the test more comfortable.

Purpose & Benefits of Gastroscopy

● Helps find the cause of long-lasting stomach pain

● Detects ulcers, infection, or swelling in the stomach

● Checks for acid reflux and food pipe damage

● Helps find bleeding inside the stomach

● Allows doctors to take biopsy samples if needed

● Helps diagnose early stomach or esophagus cancer

● Can be used to treat minor problems during the test

Who May Need a Gastroscopy?

● People with frequent heartburn or acid reflux

● Patients with long-term stomach pain or discomfort

● Those who have trouble swallowing food

● People with ongoing nausea or vomiting

● Patients with unexplained weight loss

● Those with blood in vomit or black stools

● People with suspected stomach ulcers or infection

Types of Gastroscopy

1. Diagnostic Gastroscopy

This is the most common type. It is done to check the inside of the stomach and food pipe. Doctors look for ulcers, redness, swelling, or bleeding.

2.Therapeutic Gastroscopy

This type is done to treat certain problems. Doctors may stop bleeding, remove small growths, or widen narrow areas during the test.

3.Gastroscopy with Biopsy

In this type, a small tissue sample is taken from the stomach or food pipe. The sample is sent to a lab for detailed testing.

Gastroscopy Procedure: Step-by-Step

1. The patient is asked not to eat or drink for several hours before the test.

2. At the hospital or clinic, the throat is numbed with a spray or medicine.

3. In some cases, a mild sedative is given to help the patient relax.

4. The patient lies on their side during the procedure.

5. The doctor gently passes the gastroscope through the mouth and throat.

6. Air may be sent into the stomach to get a clear view.

7. The camera sends live images to a screen for the doctor to examine.

8. If needed, small samples or treatments are done during the test.

9. The tube is slowly removed after the examination is complete.

The procedure usually takes 5 to 15 minutes.

Recovery & Aftercare

After gastroscopy, patients are kept under observation for a short time. If sedation was used, rest is advised for the day. Mild throat pain, bloating, or gas is common and usually goes away within a day. Patients can start eating once the throat feels normal again. Drinking warm liquids may help soothe the throat. Normal activities can be resumed the next day unless advised otherwise.

Risks & Possible Complications

Gastroscopy is generally safe, but like any medical test, it has some risks:

● Mild sore throat after the test

● Temporary bloating or discomfort

● There is a small risk of bleeding if biopsy is done

● Very rare risk of stomach or food pipe injury

● Sedation-related problems in some patients

Serious complications are uncommon.

Gastroscopy vs Other Digestive Tests

Gastroscopy allows doctors to directly see inside the stomach, which is not possible with X-rays or scans. Unlike imaging tests, gastroscopy can also be used to take biopsies or treat problems during the same procedure. Capsule endoscopy and scans may be used in some cases, but gastroscopy remains the most accurate test for upper digestive issues.