What is a Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy is a test that allows the Endoscopist to look into your
upper gastro-intestinal tract. This is done by passing a long flexible
tube (Gastroscope) through your mouth, passing over your tongue
to the back of your throat, down your gullet (oesophagus), into your
stomach and into the first part of your small intestine (duodenum).
The Gastroscope has a small camera attached which is connected
to a monitor system where images of your oesophagus, stomach
and duodenum can be seen.
Benefits
By performing a Gastroscopy examination the cause of your
symptoms may be found and sometimes treated. Images and
biopsies (samples) of the lining of your upper gastrointestinal tract
may be taken.
Risks
A Gastroscopy is a safe examination but there are risks you need to
be aware of. Common risks include, sore throat and bloating.
Rarely, patients may experience dental damage, chest infection,
bleeding or perforation. If a perforation (a tear in your oesophagus,
stomach or duodenum) occurs you may be required to stay in
hospital longer for close observation and in some cases may require
a stent or surgery to repair it. If you have a sedative rarely you may
experience nausea and vomiting or heart and breathing problems.
Alternative treatments
There may be alternatives to this procedure and sometimes a
Barium swallow/meal is done instead. This test does not provide
very detailed images of the upper gastrointestinal tract and does
not allow biopsies or treatment to be carried out at the same time.
Your referring clinical team has advised that Gastroscopy is the most
appropriate test for you. If you would like to discuss alternatives
further please speak to your clinical team on the ward.
What to expect on the day
The Endoscopy unit will coordinate with your ward team with regards
to special instructions prior to the procedure. You must have
nothing to eat for 6 hours before your Gastroscopy procedure
(except medication), as your stomach needs to be empty to ensure a
clear view and to reduce the risk of aspiration.
Before the procedure an Endoscopy Nurse will explain the test and
ask you some health questions. They will answer any questions or
concerns you may have.
You will be asked to sign a consent form.
A cannula will have been inserted in preparation for your procedure
(a small plastic tube).
We will transfer you to the Endoscopy Unit. Shortly before your test,
you may be given a small drink containing Simeticone mixed with
water. This is not used for sedation or pain relief; it is purely for visual
preparation. You may have to wait for some time until the procedure
room is available. When it is your turn, you will be taken into the
procedure room for your test.
Many patients are concerned about the thought of swallowing the
Gastroscope, but we would like to reassure you that most patients
manage this well and you will be able to breathe normally during the
test.
In the endoscopy room you will have the procedure whilst lying
on your left side on a trolley. The Gastroscopy will be made more
comfortable with throat spray to numb your throat and/or conscious
sedation.
Please be aware we are a Teaching Hospital and may have trainees
in any areas of your pathway. They will always be supervised and
they will always be working at an appropriate level for their training
stage. If you would rather not have a trainee involved in your care
please let the staff know your wishes. This will not affect your care.
Gastroscopy with Throat Spray
Prior to the Gastroscopy you will be given a throat spray to numb the
back of your throat. This reduces the sensation of the scope in your
mouth and throat and helps to reduce ‘gagging’.
The Endoscopist and Nurses will explain things to you during the
test. You will be able to breathe and swallow normally during the
Gastroscopy but it will feel strange.
After the procedure you will be transferred to our recovery area and
then subsequently back to your ward. The Gastroscopy result will be
communicated to you by the clinical team on the ward.
You should not eat or drink for 60 minutes following throat
spray administration to allow the numbness to wear off. The
clinical team on the ward will be advised if you need to remain
nil by mouth for longer than this.
You may experience a sore throat and/or have some bloating with
wind-like discomfort after your procedure. This is normal and usually
settles quickly.
Gastroscopy with Throat spray and Sedation
Prior to the Gastroscopy you will be given a throat spray to numb the
back of your throat. This reduces the sensation of the scope in your
mouth and throat and helps to reduce ‘gagging’.
You will need a cannula (small plastic tube) in your hand or arm
through which a mild sedation is given.
The Endoscopist and Nurses will explain things to you during the
test. You will be able to breathe and swallow normally during the
Gastroscopy but it will feel strange.
Sedation will relax you but will not put you to sleep. It is not a
general anaesthetic. You will be awake and aware during the
procedure with sedation.
Sedation may cause loss of memory and judgement for 24
hours after the test. You must not:
• Drive
• Drink alcohol
• Operate machinery
• Sign legal documents
If you are discharged from the ward within 24 hours of your
procedure you will need someone to accompany you home and
to remain with you overnight as the effects of the sedation will
still be in your system.
After the procedure you will be transferred to our recovery area and
then subsequently back to your ward. The Gastroscopy result will be
communicated to you by the clinical team on the ward. You should not eat or drink for 60 minutes following throat
spray administration to allow the numbness to wear off. The
clinical team on the ward will be advised if you need to remain
nil by mouth for longer than this.
You may experience a sore throat and/or have some bloating with
wind-like discomfort after your procedure. This is normal and usually
settles quickly.
Frequently asked questions
How long will the procedure take?
A Gastroscopy lasts 10-20 minutes.
Does it hurt?
Gastroscopy is not painful but patients usually have some retching
and bloating type discomfort. You can breathe normally during the
procedure.
Do I have to have the test?
No. The choice is yours, please refer to page 3 for alternatives and
the reason why this test is appropriate.
Can I take my tablets as normal?
Please take medications before and after the procedure as
instructed by the clinical team on your ward.
Will I be asleep for the procedure?
No. Throat spray and/or sedation is available (if your circumstances
permit), but you will be awake for the procedure.
Procedure Outcome
After the procedure you will be transferred to our recovery area and
then subsequently back to your ward. The Gastroscopy result will
be communicated to you by your clinical team on the ward. Biopsy
results will be communicated by your referring clinician at a later
date.
Gastroscopy Illustration
Access from the main hospital multistorey car park
We are located in Area 6 - Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Unit,
highlighted in orange on the main hospital map. Follow the signs for the
Main Hospital up the escalator/lift towards Area 6, second corridor on the
left. Follow the signs down the link corridor, exit to the right via the side
door (external) which is signposted for Patient Entrance to Reception.
Access for drop off/collection only & disability parking
Enter via East Park Drive and follow the road up the hill, take the
second left signposted for Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Unit Drop
Off Only, follow the road round to the right.
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Author Gastro Department
Approved by EUG Meeting
Date of Publication 18/02/2026
Reference No PL/909 (V4)
Review Date 01/02/2029
