Gastroscopy (Endoscopy)
Gastroscopy, also known as upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It involves the use of a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light, called an endoscope, to visualise and treat abnormalities.
Gastroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows direct examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is used to diagnose conditions causing upper GI symptoms, take tissue samples (biopsies), and perform therapeutic interventions, such as removing polyps or stopping bleeding.
Why Do You Do This Procedure?
Gastroscopy is performed to:
- Investigate symptoms like persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss.
- Diagnose conditions such as ulcers, inflammation, infections, or tumours in the upper GI tract.
- Monitor chronic conditions like Barrett’s oesophagus or coeliac disease.
- Treat certain issues, such as removing foreign objects, dilating strictures, or managing bleeding ulcers.
When Does This Procedure Happen?
Gastroscopy is typically performed when:
- Symptoms persist despite initial treatment, such as for acid reflux or indigestion.
- There is a need to confirm a diagnosis after non-invasive tests (e.g., blood tests or imaging) suggest an upper GI condition.
- Urgent evaluation is required for severe symptoms, such as vomiting blood or severe anaemia caused by GI bleeding.
- Routine monitoring is needed for patients with pre-existing conditions, such as oesophageal varices or Barrett’s oesophagus.
What Condition Does This Treat?
Gastroscopy is used to diagnose, monitor, or treat:
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD): Assessing damage to the oesophagus.
- Peptic ulcers: Diagnosing and treating bleeding or perforated ulcers.
- Barrett’s oesophagus: Monitoring for precancerous changes.
- Stomach or oesophageal cancer: Early detection or biopsy of suspicious lesions.
- Coeliac disease: Confirming diagnosis through biopsies.
- Oesophageal strictures: Dilating narrowed areas to improve swallowing.
- Upper GI bleeding: Identifying and treating bleeding sites, such as ulcers or varices.
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