4 questions on gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is an examination that allows visualization of the internal contents and walls of the digestive tract, in particular the esophagus, stomach and the first portions of the small intestine. This test is a very important source of information for the diagnosis and evaluation of diseases of the digestive tract; it not only allows to establish a diagnosis but also allows the specialist in Digestive System to perform certain therapeutic techniques, since the endoscope has a working channel through which forceps, probes, loops and other utensils are introduced for the treatment of certain pathologies of the digestive tract.

When is a gastroscopy performed?

Gastroscopy is performed to evaluate digestive symptoms: heartburn, difficulty in swallowing, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, etc.; it allows taking biopsies of the duodenum, stomach or esophagus, detecting tumors in early stages, resecting polyps, sclerosing bleeding vessels, or ligating varicose cords, treatment of Barret’s esophagus, dilatation of strictures, etc. Nowadays, the boundaries between surgical and endoscopic techniques to treat certain pathologies are increasingly blurred.

Preparation for gastroscopy

Since the physician needs to evaluate the mucosa of the digestive tract, the patient should fast (recommended at least 8 hours for solid food intake and a minimum of 4 hours for clear liquids (water)).

Do I have to take my usual medication?

If you are taking antihypertensives, it is advisable before the examination (4 hours before) with a sip of water. If you are taking oral antidiabetics or insulin for your diabetes, since you will be fasting, do not take it until after the examination. If you are taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents, you should consult your specialist physician and follow his or her instructions.

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Risks of gastroscopy

Fortunately, complications are very rare: less than 1 per 1,000 explorations. Some of them are: abdominal distension or pain after the exploration. The presence of hypotension, phlebitis, allergic reactions, infection, bronchial aspiration, hemorrhage, perforation and cardiorespiratory arrest are generally associated with explorations for therapeutic purposes. Obviously, the patient’s health status correlates with the likelihood of complications.