OGD Patient Information

Direct Access OGD – Patient Information

What is a Gastroscopy?

A gastroscopy involves looking at the lining of the gullet, stomach and the outlet of the stomach (called the duodenum) with a flexible tube thinner than your little finger.

How is it Done?

The flexible tube is passed in through your mouth and down into your stomach. Your throat will be sprayed with a local anaesthetic. This has an unpleasant taste but it will make your throat numb and the tube will be much easier to swallow. Sometimes during the procedure the doctor may need to remove a sample of tissue for examination under the microscope. This is known as a biopsy and it is painless.

Sedation

Sedation is medicine to make you feel relaxed and sleepy. You will be given the option of having sedation or not.

Will it Hurt?

No – the test is not painful. You may experience a dry throat afterwards.

Eating and Drinking

You must not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before the test.

Consent

The procedure will be explained fully to you and you will be asked to sign a consent form. This form will give the Consultant Gastroenterologist permission to carry out the test, you should only sign the form when you understand what is going to happen. A cannula (a small plastic tube) will be inserted into the back of your hand if sedation is required.

Medication

If you are taking Plavix, Aspirin, Warfarin or other blooding-thinning agent, please inform the Nursing Staff prior to the date of your procedure – telephone Hillsborough Private Clinic on (028) 92 688899.

What happens after the Test?

The numbness in your throat will take approximately one hour to wear off. Do not eat or drink anything until the sensation in your throat returns to normal. If you have had sedation, you must NOT drive home or operate machinery for the remainder of the day – you must be accompanied with a driver to take you home.

What about the Results?

If any medicine is needed, you will be given information to give to your GP before you go home. If a biopsy is taken, the result will be forwarded to your GP 10-14 days after the procedure.

Payment

Payment will be due on the day of the test – telephone Hillsborough Private Clinic on (028) 92 688899 for procedure price +/- cost of biopsy (if required). If the Consultant Gastroenterologist decides that an OGD is not a suitable test for you, a consultation fee will only be charged.