An endoscopy, or gastroscopy, helps detect abnormalities in the upper gastrointestinal tract, including polyps, Helicobacter pylori infection, and oesophageal and stomach cancers.
Gastroscopy
Dr Thomas Ho
Senior Consultant General Surgeon
MBBS(Sydney), MMed(Surg), AFRCS(Ireland), FRCS(Edinburgh), FAMS(General Surgery)
What is a gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy is done by having a gastroscope (a flexible lighted instrument) inserted through the mouth and carefully maneuvered into the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.
This allows the surgeon to have an internal view of the upper digestive system and evaluate for abnormalities such as polyps and cancerous growths.
When these are detected, the surgeon can remove the polyp or sample the tissue for any signs of cancer.
Understanding the procedure
Why do I need a gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy allows your doctor to check for the cause of your digestive symptoms.
These symptoms includes heartburns, abdominal pain, trouble swallowing, nausea, vomiting, unexplained weight loss and tarry stools.
A gastroscopy also helps in the detection of polyps and serious conditions like cancers, inflammation and Helicobacter Pylori infection,
How do I prepare for a gastroscopy?
Minimal preparation other than an empty stomach is required. You should be fasted for at least 6 hours prior to the procedure. You can consume your usual medications with small sips of water but certain medications such as blood-thinning medication may need to be stopped. It is important to inform your Doctor beforehand.
What happens during a gastroscopy?
Just before the procedure, an IV cannula will be inserted for administration of sedation. You may be given a small amount of liquid to drink which removes the bubbles within the stomach.
You will be placed on your side during the procedure and a mouth guard placed in your mouth to prevent biting down on the scope.
Sedatives will be given to help you relax and remain comfortable. You may or may not fall completely asleep during the colonoscopy, but most patients will not be able to remember the procedure.
Monitoring devices will be attached to your body during the examination. The whole procedure should take 10 to 15 minutes during which you may experience abdominal bloating from the air that is introduced to assist in the endoscopy evaluation. Most patients may experience some gagging as the scope is inserted into the back of the throat but this is a normal and transient reflex.
What happens after a gastroscopy procedure?
When the procedure is completed, you will be transferred back to the recovery ward where monitoring continues while you recover from the sedation. When you are fully awake and comfortable, you will be given a drink and some food. It is strongly recommended that you have someone to accompany you home after the procedure.
help center
Frequently asked questions
What complications can occur?
Gastroscopy is a safe and common day procedure, and major complications are rare.
- Severe reaction to medications administered
- Bleeding from the site of biopsy or polypectomy
- Perforations (tears) through the lining of the intestinal wall
Should these occur, it is important to contact your surgeon immediately so that follow-up measures may be undertaken expediently.
Why do I need a gastroscopy?
An endoscopy, or gastroscopy, is essential for accurately diagnosing symptoms and ensuring effective treatment outcomes. It also serves as an early intervention for certain cancers.
Who should go for a gastroscopy?
Patients who present persistent or severe digestive symptoms should consult their doctor about undergoing a gastroscopy. It is also recommended for individuals aged 45 and above, or those with a family history of gastrointestinal cancers, to consider the procedure.
What is the cost of gastroscopy in Singapore?
The surgeon or specialist’s fees for a gastroscopy range from $650 to $1,100 SGD*, excluding GST, facility fees, and consumables. Separate consultation fees apply. The final bill may vary depending on the complexity of your case. Gastroscopy costs can be subsidised through Medisave and insurance prior to the procedure.
*Fee reflected is based on MOH’s benchmarks. Please contact our clinic for a financial estimate and a detailed breakdown of what your bill may entail.
Is gastroscopy covered by insurance?
Before your gastroscopy, our clinic will assist with pre-authorisation and obtaining a letter of guarantee from your insurer to ensure subsidy for the procedure. Do contact our clinic and consult your insurance agent to find out the estimated coverage for your screening.
Dr. Thomas Ho is accredited to perform endoscopies and surgery across all private hospitals in Singapore.
If you are 45 or older, or experiencing recurring digestive symptoms, it’s recommended to schedule a gastroscopy. Those with a family history of gastrointestinal cancers are also encouraged to undergo screening.
The Specialist Behind Your Care
Dr Thomas Ho
Senior Consultant General Surgeon
20+ Years of Clinical Experience
MBBS(Sydney), MMed(Surg), AFRCS(Ireland), FRCS(Edinburgh), FAMS(General Surgery), FSSO(USA)
Dr. Thomas Ho is a distinguished surgeon well known for his expertise in Cancer Surgery, especially in the field of Head and Neck cancers as well as Abdominal and Digestive cancers. In 2009 he was awarded a MOH scholarship and completed a Surgical Oncology Fellowship in Canada, becoming one of only a handful of surgeons in Singapore with this recognition.
Prior to private practice, Dr. Ho founded the Head and Neck Surgery and Surgical Oncology service at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. Dr. Ho is experienced in laparoscopic (keyhole) and robotic-assisted surgery, which he routinely employs in the treatment of thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer, hernias, gallbladder diseases, adrenal and spleen disorders.
Early detection
Get Yourself Screened
Stomach Cancer is more prevalent amongst Asians. Get a Gastroscopy done for your symptoms today.
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