A local anaesthetic spray will be applied to your throat in order to numb it. You will also be asked beforehand about whether you wish to have a mild sedative and pain-relieving medication administered through a vein. If you have a sedative, you will remain conscious throughout the entire procedure but will feel very relaxed and possibly fall asleep as a result of the sedation.

When ready and whilst lying on your side, the consultant will pass the gastroscope through the mouth and into the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. This is done very gently and slowly, and most patients only feel mild discomfort. At times you may also feel a bit bloated as the clinician pumps small amounts of air into the stomach to obtain a clearer picture.

Images from the gastroscope are relayed simultaneously onto a screen, enabling the consultant to guide the camera, make assessments and identify any potential abnormalities. During the gastroscopy, tissue samples can also be removed for lab testing (biopsies) via various instruments that are passed down the side channel of the gastroscope.

The procedure takes less than 15 minutes.

Guide price: £1,000

**Guide prices may vary following consultation

Expected length of stay: Day case procedure

Our Enquiries Team are here to help. To speak to a member of the team about a procedure, simply use one of the contact methods below:

• Complete the online contact form here
• Email our Enquiries Team on enquiries@osdhealthcare.co.uk
• Call our Enquiries Team on 01442 331 900