Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy, also known as an upper GI endoscopy; is a medical procedure used to examine the upper part of the digestive system, including the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It is performed using a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, which has a light and camera at its tip.

When do I need the procedure

Gastroscopy is commonly used to:

• Investigate symptoms like persistent indigestion, heartburn, abdominal pain, or difficulty swallowing.
• Diagnose conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, or stomach cancer.
• Take biopsies or treat certain conditions, like removing polyps or stopping bleeding.

What do I expect

• Preparation: Patients are usually required to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• During the Procedure: A local anaesthetic spray and mild sedation may be used. The endoscope is gently inserted through the mouth and guided down the digestive tract.
• After the Procedure: Patients may experience mild bloating or a sore throat, but these usually resolve quickly.

After the procedure

After a gastroscopy, patient will be resting in a recovery area or room in the hospital, where medical staff will continue to monitor you until the effects of the anaesthesia have worn off. The staff will also provide light refreshments and ensure the patient is ready to be discharged. It was strongly encouraged that a family member is to be with patient during the discharge process and accompany the patient home. Once the laboratory results are ready, our nurse will contact you to arrange for follow-up appointment with your doctor to review the procedure, discuss the findings, including any biopsy results, and outline an appropriate management plan moving forward.

Proper aftercare at home is crucial for a smooth recovery. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Rest: If you were sedated, rest at home for the remainder of the day. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions for at least 24 hours.
2. Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Start with small sips of water and gradually increase as you feel comfortable.
3. Diet: Avoid eating or drinking until your throat feels normal again, which usually takes about 45 minutes. Begin with soft, bland foods like soup or mashed potatoes if your throat is sore.
4. Throat Care: A sore throat is common. Sucking on ice chips, throat lozenges, or gargling with warm salt water can help soothe discomfort.
5. Monitor Symptoms: Mild bloating or gas is normal, but contact your doctor if you experience severe pain, vomiting, fever, or difficulty breathing.

If you have specific concerns, feel free to contact our centre for further advice.

Safety of the procedure

Gastroscopy is generally safe, but there are minimal risks, such as bleeding or perforation, especially if a biopsy is taken.

Cost for the procedure

• A gastroscopy is a hospital procedure;it is covered under most hospitalization plans.
• The procedure is also Medisave deductible. Most of the companies’ health benefits and private health insurances cover the cost of the procedure, which may extend to the private hospitals.
• The fee benchmarks on the procedure done in different hospitals can be found in the website of Ministry of Health Singapore.
• Before the endoscopic procedure, a detailed financial counselling will be done to help the patients understand the cost breakdown in the preferred hospital.
• Patients should also check with their insurance provider on the updated policy regulations before the procedure.