Gastroscopy procedure

A gastroscopy (or OGD test) is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is used to look inside your oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

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I have a question about the gastroscopy procedure

Why would I need a gastroscopy procedure?

A gastroscopy test, also known as an OGD (oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy) procedure, can be used to:

Investigate problems such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or persistent abdominal (tummy) pain, frequent vomiting or recurring indigestion
Diagnose conditions such as stomach ulcers or acid reflux
Treat conditions such as bleeding ulcers, a blockage in the oesophagus, non-cancerous growths (polyps) or small cancerous tumours

It’s easy to make a self-pay gastroscopy appointment by completing our online booking form or by calling our Private Patient Team on 01580 363158.

What does a private gastroscopy procedure involve?

Gastroscopy is usually carried out as an outpatient procedure, which means you won't have to spend the night in hospital.

How should I prepare for my gastroscopy procedure?

To prepare for the OGD procedure, your throat will be numbed with a local anaesthetic spray. You may also be offered conscious sedation. This means you’ll still be awake, but you’ll feel drowsy and will be less aware of what’s going on around you.

At the start of the OGD test, the gastroscope is passed through your mouth, guided down your oesophagus and into your stomach during which you may feel a mild bit of discomfort. A gastroscopy test only takes about 10-15 minutes. Your Consultant may also take a biopsy.

How soon will I recover from my gastroscopy?

Once the gastroscopy test is complete, we’ll take you to our recovery room where our team will monitor you. Once you’ve fully recovered (usually within one to two hours), we’ll talk to you about returning to your regular diet and any aftercare that you need.

You may initially experience a mild sore throat or swollen feeling from the air that was used during the procedure. This will disappear quickly and can be helped along by gargling a saline solution.

You may feel groggy from the gastroscopy sedation, so someone will need to pick you up from hospital in a car or taxi and will need to stay with you for 24 hours. You should make sure you get plenty of rest during this time after your OGD procedure.

How much does a private gastroscopy procedure cost?

The cost of a gastroscopy test is listed in the endoscopy section of our treatment prices page. To find out more, complete our online form or call our Private Patient Team on 01580 363158.

Gut health hub

We know that your digestive health is important for how you feel, both physically and mentally. At Benenden Hospital, we offer fast access to tests, treatments and services for a range of symptoms and digestive conditions.

Our gut health hub has lots of useful information to help you understand and take care of your digestive health. Find expert advice, practical tips, and the latest research on keeping your digestive system healthy.

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