Gastroscopy (Upper GI Endoscopy) in Sydney
What is a Gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy-also known as an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy-is a routine, minimally invasive procedure used to visually examine the upper part of your digestive system. This includes your oesophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the duodenum (the first section of the small intestine).
The procedure is performed using an endoscope: a thin, highly flexible tube equipped with a high-definition camera and a precise light source at its tip. This provides a clear, magnified view of your intestinal lining on a digital monitor, allowing for highly accurate assessments.
Why Do You Need a Gastroscopy?
Dr Robert Gandy performs gastroscopies for both diagnostic (finding the cause of a problem) and therapeutic (treating an issue) reasons.
The procedure is usually quite safe but may rarely be associated with certain complications such as;
Diagnostic Uses
If you are experiencing unexplained symptoms, a gastroscopy can help identify the underlying cause. Common reasons for a referral include:
- Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
- Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia)
- Investigating signs of stomach ulcers, polyps, or tumours
- Assessing complications from chronic conditions like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)
- Taking tissue samples (biopsies) of the bowel lining to check for inflammation, infection, or abnormal cells under a microscope
Therapeutic & Endoscopic Surgery
Beyond looking inside, specialized surgical instruments can be passed down a narrow channel inside the endoscope to treat conditions on the spot without the need for open surgery. Dr Gandy utilizes this method to:
- Clear physical blockages in the oesophagus
- Treat bleeding ulcers safely
- Remove polyps or small tumours
- Place a stent or balloon to widen a narrowing (stricture) of the digestive tract
What to Expect During the Procedure
A gastroscopy is normally performed as a straightforward day-patient (outpatient) procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
1.Anesthesia & Comfort Options:Pre-procedure.
Before the procedure begins, you will be given a choice between a light sedative to keep you relaxed and comfortable, or an anaesthetic throat spray to numb the area. Most patients opt for the sedative to ensure a completely stress-free experience.
2.Inserting the Endoscope:Duration: ~10 minutes.
The endoscope is gently introduced through your mouth, and you will be asked to make a simple swallow to help guide the tip of the tube past your throat.
3.Detailed Evaluation:Real-time tracking.
The tube is slowly guided down your oesophagus, through your stomach, and into the duodenum. Dr Gandy carefully evaluates the lining of these structures on a high-definition monitor as the scope passes through.
4.Immediate Treatment (If Required):Extension of time.
If an issue is found, corrective therapeutic treatments or biopsies are performed immediately through the channel of the scope. While a standard diagnostic check takes about 10 minutes, corrective procedures may extend the time slightly.
Understanding the Risks and Safety
Gastroscopy is an exceptionally safe and common procedure. However, as with any medical intervention, there are a few potential risks to be aware of:
- Sore Throat: You may experience a mild sore throat for up to 24 hours following the procedure.
- Aspiration: Very rarely, stomach contents can reflux into the lungs during the procedure, which can cause pneumonia. Fasting guidelines are strictly enforced prior to your appointment to minimize this risk.
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding can occur at the site of a biopsy or polyp removal, though this usually resolves on its own.
- Perforation: In rare circumstances-most commonly associated with more complex therapeutic or corrective procedures-a small tear or perforation can occur in the lining of the stomach or oesophagus.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare for a gastroscopy?
Important: To ensure a clear view of your stomach and to prevent aspiration, your stomach must be completely empty. You will receive precise fasting instructions (usually no food or drink for 6 hours prior) from Dr Gandy’s team before your procedure.
Will I feel any pain?
Because the vast majority of patients choose conscious sedation, you will feel relaxed, sleepy, and unlikely to feel any discomfort or have a clear memory of the procedure itself. If you opt for the throat spray, you may feel a passing sensation of the scope moving, but it does not interfere with your breathing.
About Dr Robert Gandy
Dr Robert Gandy is a highly experienced specialist surgeon based in Sydney. Utilizing advanced endoscopic techniques and high-definition imaging, Dr Gandy provides comprehensive care for upper gastrointestinal conditions, ensuring accurate diagnosis and precise therapeutic intervention tailored to each patient's clinical needs.