Gastroscopy (OGD)

Gastroscopy or Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) is a procedure used to visually examine your upper digestive system. It is done by introducing a long, thin, flexible tube which has a camera at its end thus enabling us to see the lining of the upper digestive system.

It can be inserted through the nostril or mouth. The procedure allows your doctor to examine the tract in detail and some abnormalities that are detected like polyps (usually benign growths) can be identified and removed, and in other cases tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken for analysis. Invasive procedures such as stretching narrowed areas, removing swallowed objects or treating bleeding from the upper digestive system can also be performed as part of OGD.

Sedation medications are given to patients before the start of OGD so that patients are comfortably asleep during the procedure. Two types of sedation are available: moderate or deep sedation. You can decide on which sedation option is best suited for you after a discussion with your doctor.