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Gastroscopy

Dr Thng Yongxian

Gastroscopy Doctor
MBBS • MMed • MRCS (IRE) • FRCSED • FAMS

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What is a Gastroscopy?

A gastroscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure that views the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. This procedure uses a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera, called a gastroscope, inserted through the mouth and down the throat.

 

A gastroscopy is used to diagnose conditions such as stomach ulcers, gastritis and celiac disease, and to identify causes of abdominal pain, persistent nausea or dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). It can also be used to treat certain conditions, such as bleeding ulcers, or for removing swallowed objects.

Indications for a Gastroscopy

A gastroscopy in Singapore is often recommended when patients experience persistent upper gastrointestinal symptoms that require further investigation. These include:
  • Persistent Upper Abdominal Pain
  • Chronic Heartburn or Acid Reflux
  • Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)
  • Unexplained Weight Loss
  • Vomiting or Nausea
  • Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Beyond a symptoms assessment, a gastroscopy is also crucial for monitoring and diagnosing various upper digestive tract conditions, such as:

  • Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining.

  • Barrett’s Oesophagus: Changes in the cells lining the lower oesophagus, often due to chronic acid reflux.
  • Coeliac Disease: An autoimmune condition where gluten consumption damages the small intestine.
  • Stomach Cancer: Malignant growths originating in the stomach lining.

Benefits of a Gastroscopy

A gastroscopy offers significant diagnostic advantages, including:

  • Direct Visualisation of the Upper GI Tract: This allows the gastroscopy specialist to visually inspect the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum for abnormalities.

  • Ability to Perform Biopsies: Tissue samples can be collected during the procedure for microscopic examination, aiding in accurate diagnosis by the gastroscopy clinic.

  • Detection of Early Stage Cancers: Direct visualisation and biopsy capabilities significantly enhance the early detection of malignancies in the upper GI tract, allowing for timely gastroscopy treatment.
Beyond these diagnostic advantages, gastroscopy clinics in Singapore also provide therapeutic capabilities that allow for immediate treatment during the procedure, such as:

  • Removal of Polyps: Benign growths can be safely removed to prevent potential future complications.

  • Treatment of Bleeding Sites: Active bleeding from ulcers or other lesions can be stopped using specialised endoscopic techniques.

  • Dilation of Narrowed Areas: Strictures or narrowed sections of the oesophagus can be stretched to improve swallowing function.

Enquire For a Gastroscopy

Considering a gastroscopy in Singapore? Consult our gastroscopy specialist for an accurate diagnosis and personalised care.

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Preparing for a Gastroscopy

To ensure a successful gastroscopy, follow these preparation steps:

Fasting

  • Avoid eating or drinking for at least 6 to 8 hours before the procedure to clear the stomach.

Medication Adjustments

  • Discuss all medications with your gastroscopy doctor, as some may need to be paused or adjusted for the procedure.

Pre-Procedure Instructions

  • Following all the pre-gastroscopy guidelines carefully to ensure accurate results and optimal comfort.

The Gastroscopy Procedure

A gastroscopy is a precise, structured procedure that examines the upper gastrointestinal tract. The following describes a typical gastroscopy procedure, which typically takes 10 to 20 minutes to complete:

Arrival and Preparation

Upon arrival at the gastroscopy clinic or hospital, patients complete any final paperwork required and are prepared for the procedure, which includes changing into a hospital gown.

Sedation

Sedation is administered to help the patient relax, ensuring comfort during the procedure. Some patients might receive a local anaesthetic sprayed into the throat to numb the area.

Insertion of the Gastroscope

The gastroscope (or endoscope) is gently inserted through the mouth and advances down the oesophagus into the stomach and duodenum. The camera at the tip of the gastroscope transmits video to a monitor, allowing examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.

Examination and Intervention

The mucosal lining is inspected, and interventions are performed if needed, such as removing polyps or treating bleeding sources. If other abnormalities are found, a biopsy or treatment is performed using tiny instruments passing through the gastroscope.

Withdrawal of the Gastroscope

Once the examination and any necessary treatments are complete, the gastroscope is carefully withdrawn. This part of the procedure usually causes no discomfort.

Recovery and Aftercare

After a gastroscopy, paying attention to the recovery and aftercare instructions ensures a smooth transition back to normal activities. Here’s what patients can typically expect:

  • Post-procedure Monitoring:


    Immediately following the procedure, patients are monitored in a recovery area until the effects of the sedation wear off. This usually takes about an hour.

  • Diet and Hydration:


    Patients are often encouraged to start with sips of water and gradually progress to more solid foods as they feel comfortable. It’s important to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after receiving sedation.

  • Throat Discomfort:


    Some throat soreness or discomfort is common after a gastroscopy due to the insertion of the gastroscope. Lozenges and warm drinks can help soothe the throat.

  • Activity Level:


    Patients should plan to rest for the remainder of the day following the procedure. Normal activities can typically be resumed the next day unless advised otherwise.

  • Observing Symptoms

    Watch for signs of complications such as severe abdominal pain, fever, difficult or painful swallowing or bleeding (including vomiting blood or blood in the stool). These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

Dr Thng Yongxian

Senior Consultant

Hepatopancreatobiliary & General Surgeon

MBBS (SG) • MMed (Surg) • MRCS (Ire) • FRCSEd (Gen) • FAMS (Surg)

Dr Thng Yongxian is a dual fellowship-trained Hepatopancreatobiliary & General Surgeon who has performed over 6000 surgical procedures.

  • Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery
  • National University of Singapore
  • Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons, Ireland
  • Master of Medicine, General Surgery, Singapore
  • Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh
  • Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore

He pursued his subspecialty training in Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery first in the Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Singapore General Hospital. Following this, he completed a clinical fellowship in Minimally Invasive Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery at Seoul National University Hospital in Bundang, South Korea.

 

Dr Thng set up and pioneered the minimally invasive surgery programme for his hospital in complex liver and pancreas cases. His surgeries were featured on live national television. His surgical videos have also been presented at international surgical conferences. He also pioneered the use of capsule colonoscopy for colorectal screening.

 

Dr Thng has served on various committees at hospital, cluster and ministry level. Dr Thng served as a member of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy clinician workgroup for value-driven care (VDC).

Frequently Asked Questions About a Gastroscopy

Is a gastroscopy painful?
A gastroscopy is generally not painful as it is performed under sedation, ensuring your comfort throughout. You might experience a mild sore throat afterwards, but severe pain is uncommon.
You can typically resume eating and drinking once the effects of sedation wear off, usually within an hour or two. It’s often recommended to start with light, easily digestible foods.
While a gastroscopy offers direct visualisation and biopsy capabilities, alternatives for investigating upper GI symptoms may include barium swallow X-rays or a capsule endoscopy. However, these generally do not offer the same diagnostic precision or therapeutic capabilities as a full gastroscopy.

Corporate and Personal Insurance Plans

Clinic Locations

Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Alvernia

Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Elizabeth Orchard

Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Elizabeth Novena

Nexus Surgical @ Parkway East

Nexus Surgical @ Gleneagles Medical Centre

Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Alvernia

Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Elizabeth Orchard

Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Elizabeth Novena

Nexus Surgical @ Parkway East

Nexus Surgical @ Gleneagles Medical Centre

Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Alvernia

Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Elizabeth Orchard

Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Elizabeth Novena

Nexus Surgical @ Parkway East

Nexus Surgical @ Gleneagles Medical Centre

Need Help Navigating Your Health?

Dr. Thng Yongxian is experienced in a wide range of surgical specialties, including being a jaundice surgeon and gallbladder specialist. If you wish to learn more about our gastroscopy services or our other specialised treatments in Singapore, please contact our clinic today.