Are you seeking a private hospital for your upper endoscopy? An upper endoscopy, also known as a gastroscopy, is a procedure where our clinical team passes a tube through a mouth protector and down your throat.
Continue reading to learn more about upper endoscopy, why you might need one, and the possible complications.
What is an upper endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy procedure involves using a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) to examine your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
At the end of the endoscope, there is a camera and a light. So your consultant can get a clear image of your digestive system.
You shouldn’t eat or drink for about six to eight hours before the procedure.
You may have a numbing spray on the back of your throat to make you more comfortable during the procedure. Though, we can also sedate you where you will be very relaxed and sleepy
An upper endoscopy usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes, and we can use it to diagnose: swallowing problems, stomach ulcers, cancers, and acid reflux. It can also treat conditions like Barrett’s oesophagus.
If necessary, your consultant will take a small biopsy to examine suspected cancerous or pre-cancerous lesions, for example, polyps, or abnormal tissue caused by Barrett’s oesophagus.
Other reasons for an upper endoscopy include:
- Stretching the oesophagus to treat narrowing of the oesophagus
- Carrying out radio-wave therapies, including stretta and HALO radiofrequency ablation
- Attaching devices, such as the 96-hour pH capsule (BRAVO)
An upper endoscopy can be a little uncomfortable. But it is much less complex than open surgery as both an exploratory technique and a treatment option.
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After your upper endoscopy
After your upper endoscopy, you may need to have someone take you home and stay with you for 24 hours. Just to check how you are doing. Especially if we sedate you, as you will feel a little sleepy for about an hour. You may also feel a little bloated after the procedure.
If you attend a private hospital for upper endoscopy, you may go to a private room for the sedative to wear off.
The local anaesthetic wears off after 30-60 minutes. After that, you will be able to eat and drink as normal. You may develop a sore throat or experience a dry mouth after the procedure. But you can take throat lozenges for that.
Your consultant will inform you of their immediate findings and let you know if they needed to take a tissue sample (biopsy) or remove a polyp.
If they take a tissue sample, they will send it off for further investigation. Your consultant will update you with the results when you attend your follow up appointment in the clinic. They will also give you more information on the next steps, depending on their findings.
What are the possible complications?
Complications are extremely rare. We will discuss any possible risks with you before your procedure.
Complications include:
- Allergic reaction
- Incomplete procedure
- Damage to your teeth
- Bleeding
- Making a hole in your oesophagus, stomach, or duodenum
- Breathing difficulties or heart irregularities
Your consultant will be able to provide advice and support if you experience any of these issues.
Book your appointment
If you’re looking for a private hospital for upper endoscopy, consider Digestive Health UK.
We are a private digestive health clinic dedicated to ensuring your endoscopy goes as smoothly as possible.
If you are a self-pay patient, visit our fees page.
Do you have any questions, want further advice, or want to book a private consultation?
Contact us today via our online form or by giving us a call.
