MEDICAL Services
Endoscopy
ENDOSCOPY CENTER AT THE ELLIOT HOSPITAL
Gastroscopy is a procedure in which a flexible tube called a gastroscope is passed down the esophagus (the food tube) into the stomach and duodenum (the beginning of the small bowel). The tube allows the physician to view your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
This procedure is performed to determine the presence and severity of any abnormalities in the esophagus, stomach, and/or duodenum.
-To determine the source of and treat upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
-To evaluate upper abdominal pain and problems with swallowing.
-To further clarify any abnormality seen on x-ray and to obtain biopsies, if needed.
-To detect suspected abnormalities that may not be seen on x-ray, such as esophagitis or gastritis.
-To re-examine ulcers after treatment in order to evaluate the healing process.
-To remove a polyp (type of growth) from the stomach, or to remove a foreign body, (such as food, bones, coins, etc.) that may block the esophagus.
-To further evaluate heartburn and/or regurgitation.
Preparing For Your Gastroscopy
- Only clear liquids are allowed between your evening meal and midnight. A regular dinner is fine.
- You should not eat or drink after midnight before your procedure. NOT EVEN WATER.
- If you take any medications or insulin therapy, please consult your physician about whether to take them prior to your procedure. Some examples are aspirin, arthritic medications, anticoagulants (blood thinners) or iron products.
- Notify physician of any allergies to mediation, as well as any need for antibiotic therapy prior to procedures, treatments, or dental work.
- Arrange for a family member or friend to take you home after your procedure. You will be medicated for this procedure and will not be able to drive for 24 hours. Your procedure may be canceled if you fail to bring a responsible driver.
- Please bring the completed outpatient questionnaire with you when you come to the hospital.
Please register at the outpatient desk one hour before your appointment, regardless of whether you preregistered. If you need to cancel your appointment, please call your doctor at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time of your gastroscopy.
Outpatient registration will direct you to the Endoscopy Center.
You will need to sign a consent form for this procedure. (If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must accompany you and sign the consent form). Relatives will not be permitted to stay in the endoscopy area, but will be notified when the procedure is completed.
The endoscopy nursing staff will answer questions regarding your procedure, and will be with you throughout the procedure to assist you and your physician.
Your throat will be anesthetized (numbed either with a gargle or spray), to eliminate or minimize gagging.
Medication will then be given intravenously to relax you and make you as comfortable as possible.
The gastroscopy is performed with you lying on your left side. The gastroscope will be inserted into your mouth and guided through your esophagus and stomach for a complete examination. The gastroscope does not interfere with your breathing during the procedure. The procedure takes approximately 5 – 10 minutes, but may differ for each patient.
Any abnormalities will be identified, biopsies will be taken, polyps removed, and appropriate treatment will be performed as necessary. Biopsy and polyp removal are painless. All samples are then forwarded to the laboratory for analysis.
If you are an outpatient, you will recover in the Endoscopy Center until the effects of the medication have worn off. If you are an inpatient, a nurse will take you back to your room.
You will be given something to drink prior to discharge to make sure the numbness in your throat has worn off.
Resume your regular diet, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
Upon being discharged from the hospital, if you have any questions or concerns, be sure to call your doctor, or Nurse On-Call at (603) 663-4567 to speak with a nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The risk of complications from a gastroscopy is rare, but there are potential problems, such as perforation of the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum, hemorrhaging (excessive bleeding), or adverse reactions to medication used for the procedure. Your doctor will discuss possible complications with you before your procedure.
We hope this information helps you understand and prepare for your gastroscopy. If you have questions prior to your appointment at the Endoscopy Center, please call Nurse On-Call at (603) 663-4567 or your physician.
Remember to wear comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure and to bring:
- Completed Outpatient Questionnaire
- A family member or friend to drive you home
- Eye Glasses (or Contacts)
- Hearing Aids
