Gastroscopy, also known as oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD), is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure used to examine the lining of the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract — namely, the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It is performed using a thin, flexible tube called a gastroscope, which is equipped with a light source and a camera at its tip. The scope is gently inserted through the mouth and guided down the throat to allow direct visualisation of the digestive tract on a video monitor.
This procedure is typically recommended to investigate symptoms such as persistent upper abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, chronic heartburn, unexplained weight loss, vomiting, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Gastroscopy can help detect a wide range of conditions, including inflammation (gastritis), ulcers, polyps, infections (such as Helicobacter pylori), and early signs of cancer. It also allows for tissue sampling (biopsy) and certain therapeutic interventions, such as stopping bleeding or removing foreign objects.
Gastroscopy is generally safe and well tolerated. It provides valuable diagnostic information that cannot be obtained from imaging tests alone, making it a key tool in the early detection and management of gastrointestinal disorders.
Gastroscopy is performed to investigate symptoms that may point to underlying conditions in the upper digestive tract. These symptoms can include persistent indigestion, heartburn, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), nausea, vomiting, upper abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding such as black stools or vomiting blood.
The procedure helps detect a wide range of problems, including:
Gastroscopy may also be used as a follow-up tool to monitor known conditions, evaluate response to treatment, or check for recurrence after surgery. In some cases, it is done as a screening test in high-risk patients, particularly those with a family history of gastrointestinal cancers.
Additionally, gastroscopy allows for certain treatments to be carried out during the procedure, such as stopping bleeding, removing foreign bodies, or dilating narrowed areas in the oesophagus.
Gastroscopy offers several important benefits in the diagnosis and management of upper gastrointestinal conditions:
Gastroscopy is a valuable and versatile tool that not only helps uncover the cause of symptoms but also allows for immediate management of certain conditions during the same session.
Common side effects include:
Less commonly, patients may experience:
Serious complications are very rare, but may include:
To reduce risks, patients are carefully assessed beforehand, and proper aftercare instructions are provided. If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fever, or difficulty breathing after the procedure, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Proper preparation is essential for a smooth gastroscopy and to allow the doctor a clear view of your digestive tract. Here’s what you need to do:
By following these preparation steps, you help ensure the procedure is performed safely and with the most accurate results.
Gastroscopy is typically done as a day procedure and takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will be asked to lie on your left side, and Dr Aaron Poh will ensure you are comfortable throughout.
Here’s what to expect step-by-step:
Most patients find the procedure tolerable, especially with sedation. You may not even remember much of it afterward.
After a gastroscopy, you will be moved to a recovery area where you will rest until the sedative wears off. Most people are ready to go home within an hour, but you should not drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for the rest of the day.
Here’s what you can expect:
Your doctor may discuss preliminary findings with you shortly after the procedure. If biopsies were taken, results usually take a few days and will be explained during a follow-up appointment.
While complications are rare, contact your doctor or seek emergency care if you experience:
For most patients, recovery is quick and uneventful, and the procedure offers peace of mind or a clear path forward for treatment.
Gastroscopy is a safe, reliable, and minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visual examination of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It plays a vital role in diagnosing the cause of symptoms such as persistent heartburn, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained weight loss, while also enabling early detection of serious conditions like ulcers, infections, and gastrointestinal cancers. The procedure is quick, usually well tolerated with sedation, and offers not only diagnostic clarity but also the option for minor therapeutic interventions during the same session. Recovery is typically fast, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day.
If you are experiencing ongoing digestive symptoms or have been advised to undergo a gastroscopy, schedule a consultation with Dr. Aaron Poh for comprehensive care and a thorough evaluation of your gastrointestinal health.
If you are of childbearing age, you may be asked to provide a urine sample for a pregnancy test on the day of the procedure to ensure safety.
Dr Aaron Poh is a fully accredited General Surgeon with dual subspecialties in Colorectal Surgery and Trauma Surgery, recognised by Singapore’s Specialist Accreditation Board and Ministry of Health. He is the Medical Director of Alpine Surgical Practice, with clinics located at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Parkway East Hospital, and Farrer Park Hospitals.
Dr Aaron Poh has extensive experience, having performed over 5,000 endoscopic procedures. He is a strong advocate for early detection through colonoscopy, particularly for individuals at risk of colorectal cancer. His expertise includes advanced endoscopic techniques such as Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) for complex polyps and colonic stenting for obstructed cancers, which help patients avoid major emergency surgery.
When surgery is required, he specialises in minimally invasive laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery, offering patients faster recovery with less pain and scarring. In addition to cancer care, he manages a wide range of anal conditions including haemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, and abscesses, providing comprehensive colorectal treatment.
Dr Aaron Poh is a fully accredited General Surgeon with dual subspecialties in Colorectal Surgery and Trauma Surgery, recognised by Singapore’s Specialist Accreditation Board and Ministry of Health. He is the Medical Director of Alpine Surgical Practice, with clinics located at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Parkway East Hospital, and Farrer Park Hospitals.
Dr Aaron Poh has extensive experience, having performed over 5,000 endoscopic procedures. He is a strong advocate for early detection through colonoscopy, particularly for individuals at risk of colorectal cancer. His expertise includes advanced endoscopic techniques such as Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) for complex polyps and colonic stenting for obstructed cancers, which help patients avoid major emergency surgery.
When surgery is required, he specialises in minimally invasive laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery, offering patients faster recovery with less pain and scarring. In addition to cancer care, he manages a wide range of anal conditions including haemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, and abscesses, providing comprehensive colorectal treatment.
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