Test / Diagnostic Procedure: Gastroscopy (OGD)

An upper GI endoscopy is the best test for finding the cause of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract and is considered more accurate than X-rays or scans for detecting inflammation, ulcers and tumours of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.

Bookings: bookings.digestivehealth@onewelbeck.com

Tel: 020 3653 2009

What is a gastroscopy?

An upper endoscopy is a procedure that lets your gastroenterologist examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This allows them to diagnose and treat problems in this part of your digestive system.

The upper GI tract consists of the oesophagus (the gullet or food pipe), the stomach and the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).

To carry out this procedure, your specialist will use a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, which has a tiny camera, with its own lens and light source. They will view the images on a video monitor.

An upper GI endoscopy is also known as: an upper endoscopy, oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (ODG), esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), gastroscopy or panendoscopy.

At OneWelbeck Digestive Health in London, our world-class gastroenterology consultants can carry out an upper GI endoscopy as a day case surgery. They will use the latest medical technology to ensure this is a minimally invasive procedure. You should be able to return home the same day, without overnight hospital admission.

All OneWelbeck, private endoscopy procedures are carried out in first-class, comfortable surroundings, with high quality nursing care to suit your personal needs.


Why is a gastroscopy performed?

An upper GI endoscopy is the best test for finding the cause of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract. It’s also more accurate than X-rays or scans for detecting inflammation, ulcers and tumours of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.

An upper GI endoscopy procedure can help your gastroenterologist to find the cause of unexplained symptoms, such as:

  • Long-term heartburn
  • Persistent nausea and vomiting (being sick)
  • Persistent tummy pain (abdominal pain)
  • Problems swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Chest pain that is not caused by heart-related problems
  • Narrowing of the oesophagus
  • Unexplained weight loss

What can a gastroscopy diagnose?

An upper endoscopy can be used to identify different diseases and conditions:

Your gastroenterology consultant might use an upper endoscopy to obtain a biopsy (small tissue samples), which will help them to tell the difference between benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tissues.

During a GI endoscopy, your consultant can pass narrow instruments through the endoscope to directly manage many problems in the GI tract. These treatments may involve stretching a narrowed area, removing polyps (usually non-cancerous growths) or treating bleeding.


Preparing for a gastroscopy

At OneWelbeck, you will receive a consultation with your gastroenterologist before the upper endoscopy procedure. They will explain what this involves, how to prepare for it, and answer any questions you may have. Tell them about any medications you take, as well as medical conditions you have, such as heart or lung disease.

Having an empty stomach will produce the best results for an upper endoscopy, so you should have nothing to eat for 6 hours, and nothing to drink 2 hours before the examination.

You may also need to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood-thinning medications for several days in advance.

Your consultant will give you specific instructions about how to prepare for the procedure, and when to start fasting. It is important that you follow these instructions.


What does a gastroscopy involve?

At OneWelbeck in London, your endoscopy will be carried out by a leading gastroenterologist, supported by a multidisciplinary staff.  Your consultant may start by spraying your throat with a local anaesthetic or by giving you a sedative to help you relax.

You will then lie on your side, and an endoscope will be gently passed through your mouth and into the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.

The endoscope pumps air into your stomach and duodenum, which will make them easier to see. The endoscope should not interfere with your breathing.

Most patients do not find the procedure to be too uncomfortable, and many will fall asleep during the test. The upper GI endoscopy procedure usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes.

Our highly trained nurses at OneWelbeck will monitor your vital signs and keep you as comfortable as possible. You will not need to stay in the hospital overnight.


Recovering from a gastroscopy

After an upper GI endoscopy at OneWelbeck, you will be able to rest in a private, comfortable recovery area for around 1 to 2 hours, until most of the sedative has worn off.

Some results from an upper GI endoscopy will be available the same day, and your consultant will discuss these with you before you leave. The results of a biopsy may take a few days longer.

After the procedure, you may have a mild sore throat, feel bloated or experience cramps for a short time. These symptoms will improve with time.

The sedative will affect your reflexes for the rest of the day. So, it is important that you arrange to have someone to drive you home after the procedure. Do not drive or operate machinery until the next day.


Gastroscopy risks

An upper endoscopy is considered to be a safe procedure. Although complications after an upper endoscopy can occur, they are very rare when this procedure is performed by experienced gastroenterology specialists.

Your consultant at OneWelbeck will give you information about possible signs of complications to look out for. The My Recovery app will also provide you with some key guidelines about recovering from an upper endoscopy.

You can reduce your risk of complications by carefully following your consultant’s instructions about preparing for an endoscopy.


Test / diagnostic pricing

  • Gastroscopy: £1,540
  • Gastroscopy with colonoscopy: £2,475

Overview

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Health Insurance

This service or treatment is generally covered by most health insurance policies. You are responsible for checking your insurance policy cover, and you may need a referral letter. Check which insurance companies are covered.

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Self-Pay Available

This treatment is available for self-paying users. If you would like to see more information on pricing visit our pricing and payments page.

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Payment Plan

Set up a monthly payment plan to spread the cost of your treatment. Find out more about our payment plans.

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Consultation Required

For this treatment you will need to have a 1-to-1 consultation at OneWelbeck first. To book in with our team of expert clinicians or to find out more about the process contact the relevant centre team.

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Next Day Availability

We usually have next day availability for this service, please call us to check availability.

Gastroscopy Specialists

We have brought together a group of leading colorectal and general surgeons and gastroenterologists to create our Digestive Health team. With over 300 years of combined experience, these expert clinicians are the best in their field and are all focused on delivering the very best patient care.