An OGD (oesophago-gastroduodenoscopy, also known as a ‘gastroscopy’) is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed specifically to examine the inside lining of the oesophagus (food pipe), the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). A narrow, flexible, telescopic camera, called a gastroscope, is passed through the upper digestive system.
A gastroscopy is often advised when experiencing any of the following symptoms:
A gastroscopy can also be used to investigate new and/or monitor existing conditions of the upper digestive system such as:
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
| What’s included? | Hospital Only Fixed Price Package |
| Consultant fees | X |
| Anaesthetist fees | X |
| Initial consultation | X |
| Standard pre-admission assessments | ✓ |
| Accommodation | ✓ |
| Meals | ✓ |
| Nursing | ✓ |
| Theatre charges | ✓ |
| Histology | ✓ |
| Drugs and dressings | ✓ |
| Standard prosthesis charges | ✓ |
| Take-home medications | ✓ |
| Post-op consultation | X |
Expected length of stay: Day case procedure
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