Gastroscopy is also known as upper endoscopy, is used for the examination of the lining of the oesophagus, stomach and beginning of the small intestine (duodenum). In this diagnostic procedure, a gastroscope attached with a light and a camera is inserted through the mouth of the patient to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Gastroscopy is a safe diagnostic procedure. The patient will experience bloating and sore throat for a couple of hours after the examination. Other rare complications of gastroscopy are:

• Perforation of the lining of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.
• Bleeding
• Abdominal and chest pain
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Infection
• Reaction to sedation

Inserting gastroscope through the mouth can cause gagging and vomiting. The numbing spray is used to numb the throat and sedation is used to relax the patient for a comfortable experience. Numbing and sedation reduce gagging and vomiting during the procedure. So there is minimal to zero chances of vomit during the procedure.

Yes, gastroscopy is used for both diagnosing and confirming the diagnosis of cancer of the upper gastrointestinal tract. It is also used for collecting tissue from the abnormal growth on the inner lining of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. It is also used for removing polyps that can turn into cancerous growth.

Special instructions are given to the patient before gastroscopy examination for a clear view of the stomach during the procedure and to prevent unwanted complications. Before the examination patient is advised to:

• To stop or adjust ongoing medications at least a week before the procedure
• Do not eat 6 to 8 hours, and stop drinking 2 to 3 hours before the procedure
• Arrange someone to take the patient back home
• Do not smoke as tobacco can change the colour of the stomach lining

Gastroscopy is performed under sedation, so after the examination patient has to wait at the clinic till the effect of sedation wears off. The patient is instructed to arrange for someone to drive back home and stay with them for the next 24 hours. The patient will also experience bloating and sore throat for a couple of hours.