Gastroscopy, Melbourne Victoria
What is a Gastroscopy?
A Gastroscopy is an upper endoscopy which enables us to examine the inside lining of your oesophagus, stomach and duodenum (first portion of the small intestine) for any abnormalities or diseases. Whilst our specialist anaesthetist ensures that you are asleep for the duration of the procedure, a small camera inserted through the mouth, and your images are viewed on a video screen.
The procedure itself does not interfere with your breathing and the recovery period following the gastroscopy is brief.
A Gastroscopy is performed with great care and minimal risks.
Our highly trained procedure room and recovery room nursing staff will ensure the maximum level of comfort and safety possible.
Why is a Gastroscopy performed?
A Gastroscopy procedure is a safe and accurate investigation of the upper gastro-intestinal tract. A Gastroscopy is also used to treat and diagnose certain conditions, such as a stricture (narrowing) , Helicobacter, Coeliac disease, Stomach ulcers, Duodenal ulcers and Stomach tumors. Biopsies can be easily obtained at a Gastroscopy.
When performed by one of our specialists, this examination can reveal vital information to help our patients achieve optimal digestive health.
We recommend a Gastroscopy to patients experiencing symptoms such as persistent upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. It is also the best test for finding the cause of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Upper endoscopy is usually more accurate than x-rays for detecting inflammation, ulcers or tumours of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. The great advantage of this procedure is that it can detect early cancer and can distinguish between benign and malignant (cancer) conditions by performing biopsies (taking small tissue samples) of suspicious areas.
Biopsies are taken for many reasons and do not necessarily mean that cancer is suspected. In many cases, the doctor is able to inform patients of their Gastroscopy results on the day of the procedure; however certain biopsy and test results take several days to arrive.
If we find any narrowed or strictured areas of the esophagus, we may perform a dilatation whereby a dilator is passed down the endoscope to stretch the area of concern.
If small growths (polyps) are found, these may be removed during the procedure.
For more detailed information, download our Gastroscopy Information