Gastroscopy is an examination that allows for the visualization and evaluation of the inner lining of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
The examination typically lasts for 10 to 15 minutes. After the procedure, you will need to wait for 30 minutes to an hour for the effects of the sedative to wear off.
Medication is administered to you to facilitate the examination and for your comfort. After locally anesthetizing (numbing) the throat, the doctor introduces a small, flexible tube, about the diameter of a small finger, called a gastroscope, through your mouth to your stomach. Using an optical fiber (camera), the doctor views the images projected on a screen, allowing them to conduct the examination. This examination detects abnormalities in the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It confirms or rules out a diagnosis.
Biopsy
During the examination, it is possible to perform a painless biopsy. In this case, a small instrument is introduced into the gastroscope to take a tissue sample. The sample taken will be sent to the hospital’s laboratory for analysis.
Duration of the Examination
The examination lasts for approximately 10 minutes, and you will remain under observation for about 30 minutes or longer, depending on your situation. You should remain fasting for one hour after the examination to ensure that your throat is adequately recovered.
BEFORE THE EXAMINATION
Important:
It may be necessary to temporarily stop some of your medications before the procedure (such as anticoagulants).
AFTER THE EXAMINATION
You must be accompanied for your journey home.
It is important to note that you will not be able to drive for the next 24 hours following your examination if it required sedation.
