A gastroscopy is a procedure where a long, flexible telescope (a Gastroscope) is passed through the mouth to examine the upper section of the gastrointestinal tract (oesophagus, stomach and duodenum).
The procedure is performed under intravenous sedation or anaesthesia and takes 10-15 minutes.
Open Access Gastroscopy has been shown to have a major effect upon patient management in general practice.
- Reduced waiting time for Gastroscopy leads to earlier detection of cancers of the oesophagus and stomach and earlier treatment of stomach ulcers.
- A normal endoscopy result can also have a significant impact, as it can allow medications to be reduced with more confidence, GP consultations to be reduced and less referrals to Specialists.
Indications
Abdominal pain, heartburn or indigestion, weight loss, swallowing difficulties, anaemia or other symptoms
Preparation
Fast for 4 hours.
All Bendigo Day Surgery Specialists live and work in Bendigo and are able to help with your ongoing management, if required.