Gastroscopy Perth
Gastroscopy explained
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Level 3, Suite 302
44 Barry Marshall Parade
Murdoch WA 6150
On this page, we’ll explain how we perform a gastroscopy, why it’s used, and what to expect if you’ve been referred for one at Westside Gastroenterology. We perform gastroscopies at St John of God Murdoch Hospital, the Mount Hospital in Perth, and Peel Health Campus in Mandurah.
Gastroscopy Perth
What is a gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy is a procedure where we use a long, thin, flexible tube called an endoscope to look inside your gut. We gently pass the tube through your mouth into your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small bowel.
“The endoscope sends images to a screen, so we can check your gut health and spot any issues. Sometimes, we take tiny tissue samples (biopsies) for more detailed analysis.”
Dr Callum Pearce
Gastroenterologist Perth
The procedure is done as a day surgery in the hospital, so you can go home the same day. We perform gastroscopies at SJOG Murdoch Hospital, the Mount Hospital in Perth, and Peel Health Campus in Mandurah.
Why have a gastroscopy?
Why do you need a gastroscopy?
We perform gastroscopies to investigate symptoms in your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small bowel, such as:
- Indigestion or upper tummy pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Possible bleeding
A gastroscopy is better than an x-ray for spotting most issues in these areas. During the procedure, we might take biopsies to diagnose conditions like coeliac disease, check how well your small bowel is working, and assess overall gut health.
Sometimes, we also treat problems during a gastroscopy, like stretching a narrowed area, removing polyps, or stopping bleeding.
Find out which conditions a gastroscopy can detect.
Gastroscopy preparation
Before having a gastroscopy
If your GP has referred you for a gastroscopy, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- You need an empty stomach, so don’t eat or drink anything, including water, for about six hours before the test. We’ll give you specific details based on the time of your appointment.
- Let us know about any medications you take, as you might need to adjust your dose, especially if you have diabetes or take blood thinners.
- Inform us about any allergies or medical conditions like heart or lung disease.
If you have any questions about your upcoming gastroscopy, just give us a call at Westside Gastroenterology. We’re here to help.
Gastroscopy procedure Perth
During a gastroscopy
At Westside Gastroenterology, all procedures are done in hospitals with specialist anaesthetists to take care of you. They are trained to safely put you to sleep and look after you during the procedure.
“Before the procedure, you’ll be given a sedative. Most patients do not receive a full general anaesthetic like they would for major surgery, but you will still be asleep during the procedure and won’t remember anything afterward. We might also numb your throat with a spray and place a small mouthguard between your teeth to protect the endoscope. The whole procedure takes about 15 minutes.”
Dr Callum Pearce
Gastroenterologist Perth
After effects of a gastroscopy
After a gastroscopy
After your gastroscopy, you’ll be monitored in the recovery area until the sedation wears off. Rarely, you might have a slightly sore throat or feel bloated from the air introduced into your stomach, but these symptoms usually go away quickly. You can eat soon after unless we advise otherwise.
You’ll get your results on the day of the procedure, and we may schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss them in detail. Biopsy results will take a few days.
Due to the sedation, it’s important not to drive, travel alone on public transport, operate machinery, sign legal documents, or drink alcohol for the rest of the day. We recommend having a friend or relative take you home and stay with you after the procedure.
Gastroscopy at Westside Gastroenterology
Having your gastroscopy with Westside Gastroenterology
We perform gastroscopies at St John of God Murdoch Hospital, the Mount Hospital, and Peel Health Campus. These are excellent facilities for your procedure.
We are gap-free providers, meaning you won’t receive an additional bill from any of our gastroenterologists for your gastroscopy. We are paid directly by the health insurance companies.
If you have any questions about your gastroscopy or need to book an appointment, please call our office for assistance or fill out our web form.
Gastroenterologist Murdoch Square
Find us at Murdoch Square
Formerly known as Wexford Gastro, we have rebranded to reflect our new address while maintaining the same exceptional care and expertise you’ve come to trust.