Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy)
What symptoms may be investigated via upper GI endoscopy?
Heartburn
Abdominal pain
Anaemia
Difficulty swallowing
Changes in bowel habits
Bleeding from the bowels
Unexplained weight loss
What conditions may be diagnosed with the aid of upper GI endoscopy?
Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease
Hiatus Hernia
Barrett’s Oesophagus
Oesophageal cancer
Gastric cancer
Gastritis
Ulcers of the stomach, duodenum or oesophagus
Gastro-intestinal Stromal tumours
Achalasia
What is involved in having an upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy)?
The endoscope is inserted via the mouth passing through the oesophagus into the stomach and duodenum (first part of the small bowel). Biopsies may be taken during the procedure. If other procedures are to be carried out during the endoscopy these will be discussed with you in detail in advance.
This is performed as a day procedure, meaning you will not need to stay overnight in hospital. The procedure usually takes under 15 minutes and is performed under sedation (not a full anaesthetic). You will spend a total of three to four hours in the hospital. You will need to be driven home by a friend or family member. You will not be able to drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours after the procedure.
Where will my endoscopy be performed?
Dr Ghadiri performs endoscopies at Brisbane Private Hospital (Wickham Tce) and the Wesley Hospital in Brisbane and at St Andrew’s Private Hospital in Ipswich.