Gastroscope is an endoscopic instrument used to examine the inside of the stomach. The test is called gastroscopy or upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE). It can be used to diagnose problems with the lining of the stomach and duodenum and can also be used to treat conditions like peptic ulcers. It is a non-invasive procedure that can be carried out on an outpatient basis, so you do not have to stay in hospital.
During the gastroscopy your throat will be sprayed with a numbing spray and you may be given a mild sedative to keep you relaxed and drowsy. A mouth guard is put in your mouth to protect your teeth and the gastroscope is inserted into your mouth or down your throat. It is a thin flexible tube which has a light and video camera on the end of it which sends pictures to a screen. It also has a tool that can take tissue samples.
The gastroscope is pumped full of air to make it easier to see inside your body and the doctor looks for any abnormalities. If you have a peptic ulcer the doctor can use the tool to suck out fluid and tissue and to cauterize (seal) blood vessels that are bleeding. The doctor can also look for infections such as H pylori, which is the cause of many peptic ulcers. The doctor may also remove a small piece of your stomach lining to send to a laboratory for testing.
A gastroscopy can be uncomfortable, 胃カメラ but it is better than having open surgery. Very rarely the lining of your oesophagus or stomach or the duodenum (the first part of your small intestine) can be torn during gastroscopy and you would need to be admitted to hospital for surgery to repair this. There is also a risk of complications from being sedated.
After the gastroscopy you will be taken to a recovery area for observation and to ensure that you are feeling well. The sedative will wear off gradually and you will feel more awake as the effects of it wear off. It is a good idea to have someone to drive you home as you will not be allowed to operate machinery until you are fully recovered. Depending on the type of sedative you have been given, this could be 12 to 24 hours after your gastroscopy. If you have been given a mild sedative you can usually drink water, but do not eat anything until the effects of the sedation have worn off. If you have been given a strong sedative you will need to go home with a friend or family member and you should not drive a car for 12 to 24 hours after the procedure. The sedative can impair your judgement and affect your reflexes. Please note that due to unforeseen circumstances sometimes we have to cancel procedures at short notice. If you are booked in for a gastroscopy and this happens, we will contact you to rearrange a new appointment.
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