Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is used to examine the inside of the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

What should you expect during a gastroscopy examination?
Before the examination begins, the doctor sprays the throat with a local anesthetic to reduce sensation and the gag reflex that may occur when the endoscope passes through the throat. The procedure is most often performed while the patient is lying on their left side. The doctor performing the procedure places the endoscope into the back of the mouth and asks you to swallow the first part of the tube. After that, the doctor can begin doing their work. The procedure should not be painful, but it can sometimes be uncomfortable. Bloating and belching may occur due to the air introduced during the examination, as well as an urge to vomit caused by the insertion of a foreign body into the body. The most difficult part for the patient does not last long (approximately 1 to 2 minutes)

How to prepare for a gastroscopy?
You must come to the examination fasting. The examination is most often performed in the morning. If the examination is performed in the afternoon, it is understood that 12 hours before the examination you must not consume food or drink, and smokers must not smoke for at least three hours before the gastroscopy. You will receive all other instructions at the reception desk or by email.