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GASTROSCOPY

WHAT IS A GASTROSCOPY?

Gastroscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the lining of your stomach.  Using a thin, flexible tube with its own lens and light source, the doctor can view the stomach in order to identify any abnormalities.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR THE EXAM?

Be sure to discuss with your doctor whether you should use any of your usual medications before the procedure and whether you have any drug allergies.  It is also important to mention other major diseases, such as a heart or lung condition, which might require special attention during the procedure.  You will be asked to sign a consent form authorizing the physician to perform the procedure.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A GASTROSCOPY?

A Gastroscopy is usually performed on an outpatient basis.  All dentures, eyeglasses and contact lens must be removed.  Your throat may be anesthetized by a spray or liquid.  A needle for intravenous (IV) medication will be placed in a vein in your arm prior to the procedure.  Medicine will be injected through this needle that will make you sleepy and relaxed.  As you lie on your side, the doctor will insert a small mouthpiece.

You can breathe easily throughout this exam.  The doctor will help you swallow the flexible endoscope tube and then will examine the lining of your stomach.  A biopsy (tiny bit of tissue) may be taken for microscopic analysis.  You will not feel any discomfort when the biopsy is performed.  The procedure takes 15-30 minutes.  Many people do not recall any of the procedure.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE EXAM?

After the test you will be monitored until most of the effects of the medication have worn off.  You will probably feel drowsy and may sleep for a short time.  The physician will explain the results of the exam to you.

The results of any biopsies taken will take several days.  If you have any questions, feel free to ask the doctor.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR GASTROSCOPY

1. Do not eat anything after midnight the night before the procedure.

1. DO NOT take aspirin or aspirin-type products for one week prior to your Gastroscopy. Let your Doctor know if you are any blood thinners.
2. If your procedure is in the afternoon, you may have 8 oz. of clear liquid 6 hours before the procedure.
3. Please advise your doctor if you have any problems with a heart valve or if you have heart murmur.
4. Arrive promptly and expect to stay up to an hour after the exam.
5. On the day of the exam, you will receive intravenous sedation.  These medications will impair your driving ability.  You must arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
6. You may not drive until the next day.