Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy is an examination of the upper digestive tract (the esophagus, stomach and duodenum) using an endoscope -- a long, thin, flexible HD camera and light -- to view the lining of these organs. Gastroscopy is usually suggested to investigate the cause of abdominal pains, anemia, or bleeding. The procedure is done under sedation, and lasts under 10 minutes. During the procedure, images are stored on a computer. If any abnormalities are seen, very small samples (biopsies) can be taken for examination under a microscope. Before you leave, you will discuss the results with your physician, and receive a disc with the pictures and the operative report from your procedure. You family doctor will already have the results by this time. If biopsies are taken, you will be asked to book a follow-up appointment to review these with your physician in about 3 weeks. Our Media page has more detail in the powerpoint presentation.