Gastroscopy

Useful Information

About our services

A gastroscopy is a test which allows the doctor to look at the lining of the oesophagus (gullet or food pipe), the stomach and the first part of your intestine.

A gastroscopy is performed using a thin flexible tube (gastroscope) which has a camera and a light on the tip, used to look at the area being examined. The stomach needs to be empty for this procedure so you will be fasting prior to the test.

The test itself is quite short, lasting approximately five to ten minutes. However you can expect to be in the department for a couple of hours, depending on whether or not you have sedation.

The test is not painful but can feel a little uncomfortable.

As per current guidelines patients for gastroscopies are Covid swabbed.

What to expect

• Any patient having a gastroscopy is required to fast for six to eight hours pre-procedure
• A throat spray is given to numb your throat
• You will lie on your left side
• A plastic mouth piece will be placed between your teeth, to help keep your mouth slightly open
• The gastroscope is passed through this mouth piece, into your mouth and gently moved down the oesophagus
• The gastroscope does not interfere with your breathing and you can breathe normally
• During the test your stomach will be inflated with air to enable a better view for the examination
• If necessary the doctor may take a small piece of tissue for biopsy
• A nurse will stay with you throughout the procedure

Please note that if you having a procedure in the endoscopy department and need guidance or advice on your medication (for example patients on NOAC or with diabetes), please let us know and the clinical nurse manager will be happy to help. 

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