Diagnostic Gastrocopy

Why is diagnostic gastroscopy done?

Gastroscopy is a procedure done to examine the upper digestive tract including the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum in order to detect and diagnose disorders of the oesophagus, stomach and the duodenum.

How is diagnostic gastroscopy done?

• The patient is made to lie on his left side and given medication to help numb the back of his throat as well as a sedative to help him relax. 
• The patient is made to swallow the gastroscope which is guided by the physician through the oesophagus down into the stomach.
• Air is passed through the scope to facilitate better visibility of the stomach and oesophageal lining. 
• Any abnormality seen is diagnosed by taking a sample of the tissue for biopsy with the help of special instruments that are inserted through the scope.