Services
Gastroscopy
Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD), Upper GI endoscopy
What is Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy, also known as OGD, is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the upper digestive tract, which includes the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). It uses a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, which is only around a centimetre in diameter (about the size of most people's little finger) and has a light and camera at its tip.
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Why is Gastroscopy Performed?
Gastroscopy is typically performed to diagnose and treat various gastrointestinal conditions. It helps us investigate symptoms such as:
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Persistent abdominal pain
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Difficulty swallowing
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Heartburn or acid reflux
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Nausea and vomiting
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Unexplained weight loss
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Gastrointestinal bleeding
Additionally, Gastroscopy is an essential tool for screening and surveillance of conditions such as ulcers, inflammation, and even early signs of cancer in the upper digestive system.
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How is Gastroscopy Performed?
Before the procedure, you will receive instructions on how to prepare. This may include fasting for a certain period to ensure your stomach is empty, which allows for better visualization during the procedure (No food for at least 6 hours and no liquid for 2 hours before the procedure).
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During the Gastroscopy:
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Preparation: A numbing spray is applied to your throat to reduce discomfort before you lie down on your left. A small plastic mouthpiece will be placed between the teeth. You will then be given a sedative to help you relax and feel comfortable during the procedure.
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Insertion of the Endoscope: The endoscope is gently inserted through your mouth and guided down your throat into the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum. You may be asked to swallow to aid the passage of the endoscope.
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Examination: As the endoscope advances, your gastroenterologist will carefully examine the lining of your upper gastrointestinal tract. The camera attached to the endoscope transmits real-time images to a monitor, allowing for a detailed evaluation. The duration of the procedure varies but typically takes around 10-20 minutes, depending on the indication.
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Biopsies or Treatments: If necessary, small tissue samples (biopsies) will be taken for analysis or therapeutic interventions such as removing polyps will be completed.
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What will I feel?
The local anaesthetic throat spray numbs the back of the throat and reduces the gag reflex. Once the camera passes into the oesophagus, most people can lie still with little or no distress throughout the procedure. Although your throat will feel numb, your breathing will not be affected. The throat spray effect lasts around 30 minutes.
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Most people choose to have intravenous sedation. Conscious sedation is when you are drowsy and relaxed but not fully asleep. With conscious sedation, you may be able to watch the procedure on the monitor. Others may prefer deeper sedation where you are asleep and do not feel any sedation during the procedure. Your preference can be discussed before the procedure.
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What to Expect After Gastroscopy?
After the procedure, you will be monitored briefly until the sedative wears off. You may experience temporary effects such as a sore throat, bloating, or mild discomfort in your abdomen due to the air inserted during the procedure. These effects typically resolve quickly within an hour.
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Follow-up may be arranged. A report and photographs of the lining of the bowel will be attached. Biopsies will take around two weeks to be reported by the laboratory. Once the results are out, the results will be communicated to your GP and copied for your reference.
Colonoscopy
Ileo-colonoscopy, Lower GI endoscopy
What is Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon or large bowel) and rectum. It involves the use of a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope. The colonoscope has a diameter about the size of a ring finger, and is equipped with a camera and light source.
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Why is Colonoscopy Performed?
Colonoscopy is an essential tool for detecting and diagnosing various colorectal conditions, including:
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Colorectal cancer screening: Colonoscopy is the gold standard for detecting colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps.
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Evaluation of gastrointestinal symptoms: It helps investigate symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.
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Monitoring chronic conditions: Colonoscopy is used for surveillance in patients with a history of colorectal polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), or a family history of colorectal cancer.
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How is Colonoscopy Performed?
Before the procedure, you will receive instructions on how to prepare. This typically involves cleansing your colon by following a special diet and taking laxatives to ensure your colon is clear of stool and provides optimal visualization. Bowel preparation instructions can also be found below:
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Endoscopy Auckland AM colonoscopy or PM colonoscopy
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Greenlane Medical Specialists AM colonoscopy or PM colonoscopy
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During the Colonoscopy:
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Preparation: You will lie on your left to start with and will be given a sedative to help you relax and feel comfortable during the procedure. A rectal finger (back passage) exam is completed before the camera is inserted.
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Insertion of the Colonoscope: The colonoscope is gently inserted through your anus and guided through the rectum into the colon. Your gastroenterologist will advance the colonoscope slowly, examining the lining of your colon along the way. You may be asked to change positions or an assistant (usually a nurse) will apply pressure on your tummy, to help the camera advance.
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Examination: The camera attached to the colonoscope transmits real-time images to a monitor, allowing your gastroenterologist to carefully inspect the entire length of your colon. If any abnormalities, such as polyps or suspicious areas, are detected, biopsies may be taken for further analysis. The duration of the procedure varies but typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on the indication.
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Treatment: If necessary, small tissue samples (biopsies) will be taken for analysis or therapeutic interventions such as removing polyps will be completed.
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What will I feel?
Most people choose to have intravenous sedation. Conscious sedation is when you are drowsy and relaxed but not fully asleep. With conscious sedation, you may be able to watch the procedure on the monitor. Others may prefer deeper sedation where you are asleep and do not feel any sedation during the procedure. Your preference can be discussed before the procedure.
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What to Expect After Colonoscopy?
After the procedure, you will be monitored until the sedative wears off. You may experience some temporary effects such as bloating, gas, or mild cramping due to the air inserted during the procedure and the manipulation of the colonoscope.
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Follow-up may be arranged. A report and photographs of the lining of the bowel will be attached. Biopsies will take around two weeks to be reported by the laboratory. Once the results are out, the results will be communicated to your GP and copied for your reference.
Clinic Consultations
Consultations to address your unique digestive health needs, manage chronic conditions or treat acute symptoms. ​​
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Clinic appointments at two convenient locations or via telehealth if preferred
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Specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions
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Multilingual services, with consultations in both English and Mandarin
