What is a Gastroscopy?

Gastroscopy is a visual examination of the lining of the upper part of your digestive tract i.e. oesophagus (food pipe), stomach and duodenum (first part of the small intestine).

A gastroscope (long, flexible tube with a small camera on the end) is passed through your mouth and down your digestive tract.

Images from the camera are displayed on a video screen and photos can be taken. The endoscope (tube) will not interfere with your breathing.

It will then show any abnormalities and if necessary a small tissue sample (biopsy) using tiny biopsy forceps will be taken. This is painless and the tissue sample is sent to the laboratory for examination under a microscope.

What does a Gastroscopy investigate?

  • Indigestion, heartburn, reflux
  • Any changes in bowel habit
  • Bleeding, anaemia
  • Nausea
  • Swallowing difficulties
  • Pain and/or abdominal discomfort
  • Peptic ulcers or gastritis
  • Celiac disease
  • Growths or tumours

 

Do I need to go under general anaesthetic?

No you will not go under general anaesthetic as this is such a quick procedure; it usually takes around 30-45 minutes.

You can either be given either a local anaesthetic spray which numbs the throat. If you decide to have the throat spray you can carry on with your day as normal; drive, go to work etc.

You may also have a heavy sedation which you would need a cannula either through your hand or arm and this should relax you but not send you to sleep. With a sedation, you will not be able to drive someone will have to take you home. You will also have to wait at the hospital until the sedation has worn off.

 

What happens after the Gastroscopy?

A follow up appointment will be made for you at the Hospital you had your Gastroscopy at and Mr Lingam will discuss the results with you.

 

Contact us

Should you wish to consult Mr Lingam about your hernia, please send an email to mklingam.sec@gmail.com or call:

Derby Nuffield on 01332 540100

Derby Private Suite on 01332 786128

Mr Lingam consults at the Derby Nuffield on Tuesday AM, Wednesday and Friday PM and at Derby Private Suite on a Thursday PM.