Gastroscopy

Why it is needed?

It helps the clinician to visualise the lining of the upper digestive tract allowing detection of mucosal abnormalities such as oesphagitis, gastritis, Helicobacter Pylori infection, stomach and duodenal ulcers. It is also useful in detecting the narrowing (stricture) of the oesophagus and stomach polyp. It can also help to stop the upper digestive tract bleeding by applying haemostatic agents. Gastroscope enables clinician to obtain tissue biopsies for histological anaylsis.

What preparation is needed?

You child will need to be fasted 4 hours before the procedure.

Is there a risk?

Gastrscopy in children is generally performed under general anaesthesia. This means there is general anaesthesia risk although it is generally very safe procedure but as with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks, including infection, bleeding or perforation of the digestive tract. The risk of complications is exceedingly rare when performed by an experienced endoscopist. Your child may experience minor sore throat, mild abdominal bloating and discomfort post procedure.