What is Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy or OGD, is a medical procedure used to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract. It involves the use of a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, which has a tiny light and camera at its tip.
When is Gastroscopy Recommended?
Diagnose Digestive Problems – Gastroscopy is an important step in diagnosing digestive issues, especially that of the upper gastrointestinal tract. The doctor may recommend a gastroscopy if a patient presents with symptoms such as:
- Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bloating
- Upper abdominal pain that does not go away
Routine Medical Screening – If the patient has a history of
gastric ulcers or polyps, their risk of stomach cancer may be higher, and the doctor may recommend
gastroscopy as a form of preventive screening. The doctor may check for abnormalities such as ulcers,
inflammation, polyps, or tumours in the stomach or duodenum. Early detection is key to more effective
treatment.
Treating Certain Conditions – Gastroscopy is not just for diagnosis – it can be used for treatment, too. Through a gastroscopy, doctors can perform the following treatments:
Treating Certain Conditions – Gastroscopy is not just for diagnosis – it can be used for treatment, too. Through a gastroscopy, doctors can perform the following treatments:
- Stop bleeding from ulcers
- Remove a foreign body that the patient might have swallowed by accident
- Remove polyps
- Remove small tumours from the stomach
A gastroscopy is a safe and accurate procedure that is both quick and comfortable.
Contact us at:
Patient Care
+65 6518 9838
What to Expect During a Gastroscopy?
Preparation: Prior to the procedure, you will be asked to fast to
ensure an empty stomach. This allows for optimal access and visualization of the stomach.
Anaesthesia: A local anaesthetic is usually applied to your throat to minimise discomfort during the procedure. You may also receive a sedative to help you relax.
Insertion of the Endoscope: The endoscope is gently inserted through your mouth and guided down your throat, oesophagus, and into your stomach and down into the duodenum (the start of the small intestine).
Examination: The camera at the end of the endoscope sends real-time images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the lining of your upper digestive tract.
Biopsy and Treatment: If any abnormalities or issues are detected, the doctor can perform biopsies or administer treatments using specialised tools passed through the endoscope.
Recovery: After the procedure, you will be monitored until the effects of the anaesthesia wear off. It is essential to have a friend or family member accompany you in leaving the clinic, as you may still feel drowsy.
A gastroscopy is considered a very safe and useful procedure. It typically takes just around 10-20 minutes, followed by a short period of observation before you are discharged.
Anaesthesia: A local anaesthetic is usually applied to your throat to minimise discomfort during the procedure. You may also receive a sedative to help you relax.
Insertion of the Endoscope: The endoscope is gently inserted through your mouth and guided down your throat, oesophagus, and into your stomach and down into the duodenum (the start of the small intestine).
Examination: The camera at the end of the endoscope sends real-time images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the lining of your upper digestive tract.
Biopsy and Treatment: If any abnormalities or issues are detected, the doctor can perform biopsies or administer treatments using specialised tools passed through the endoscope.
Recovery: After the procedure, you will be monitored until the effects of the anaesthesia wear off. It is essential to have a friend or family member accompany you in leaving the clinic, as you may still feel drowsy.
A gastroscopy is considered a very safe and useful procedure. It typically takes just around 10-20 minutes, followed by a short period of observation before you are discharged.
Our doctor is experienced in performing gastroscopies for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Make a prompt appointment at 6518 9838 or WhatsApp us today.
Clinic Expertise
01
Evidence Based Treatment
Use of treatments that are tailored to different patients' needs with proven effective outcomes
02
Competence & Experience
With more than 10 years' experience in colorectal surgery and previous director in Singapore General Hospital
03
Excellent Patient Care
Personalised care of patients to ensure an optimal experience and a faster return to home and normal activities
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