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Gastroscopy
Also called an upper endoscopy or OGD. A short examination of the oesophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine, used to find the cause of persistent upper digestive symptoms.
What it involves
A thin flexible endoscope carrying a camera is passed through the mouth and down the oesophagus. The endoscopist examines the lining of the oesophagus, the stomach and the duodenum on a screen, and can take small tissue samples for analysis if anything needs closer investigation.
As with a colonoscopy, you are given sedation through an intravenous line so that you are relaxed and drowsy throughout.
Why people are referred for one
- Heartburn or reflux that has not settled with treatment
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Suspected stomach ulcer, or Helicobacter pylori infection
- Suspected coeliac disease, where biopsies confirm the diagnosis
- Unexplained iron deficiency anaemia
- Surveillance of a previously diagnosed condition such as Barrett’s oesophagus
Preparing for it
Your stomach must be empty. The full instruction package we send you at booking sets out exactly when to stop eating and drinking, and what to do about your regular medications.
Having both procedures on the same day
If you are scheduled for a double procedure, a colonoscopy and a gastroscopy together, follow the colonoscopy preparation instructions. The bowel preparation covers both. If your doctor has referred you for a colonoscopy and you also have upper symptoms, tell us at booking and the two can usually be arranged for one visit.
Afterwards
- You are monitored while the sedation wears off, as with a colonoscopy.
- You must not drive for 12 hours. Arrange a driver, or be accompanied if travelling by bus or taxi.
- Your throat may feel a little sore or numb for a short while.
- You receive your written report before you leave, and your referring doctor receives a copy within 24 hours.
- If biopsies were taken, those results follow separately once the laboratory has reported.
Consent
You will be asked to read and agree to the gastroscopy consent form, which sets out the benefits and the risks of the procedure, before your appointment is confirmed. If you have difficulty with English, bring a friend or family member to interpret for you.
Getting referred for a gastroscopy
Ask your family doctor, walk-in physician or specialist to fax a referral to 905-856-2602. We will contact you directly to book.