Gastroscopy Consent

The oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine called the duodenum are inspected with a gastroscopy. Therefore any abnormalities occuring on the inside of these organs on their lining can potentially be identified, biopsied and sometimes removed using a flexible camera known as an endoscope.

It is the recognised investigation for a variety of conditions and symptoms such as gastroesophageal reflux, hiatus hernia, swallowing problems, iron deficiency anaemia, weight-loss, bloating, upper abdominal discomfort or pain, food intolerances and more.

Bariatric surgery is major abdominal surgery on the stomach, and international guidelines recommend pre-operative gastroscopy to assess the upper gastrointestinal tract for the following:

  • Barrett's metaplasia of the oesophagus - a potentially pre-cancerous change in the oesophagus that may require the surgical plan to change. Generally sleeve gastrectomy and one-anastomosis gastric bypass is not recommended in the setting of Barrett's.

  • Oesophagitis - inflammation of the oesophagus secondary to acid reflux, or that may exist from other causes but reflux would exacerbate the condition.

  • Hiatus hernia - this is where the top of the stomach can slide into the thorax through the diaphragm opening and if left unrepaired, could result in reflux after surgery.

  • Gastric intestinal metaplasia - this condition is associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer and certain patterns of this condition could make gastric bypass a contraindication.

  • Stomach and peptic ulcers.

  • Helicobacter pylori infection - this bacteria is endemic in the population and is recognised as a carcinogen by the World Health Organisation. It is our routine practice to test for this bacteria and eradicate it is present.

  • Any other unexpected upper gastrointestinal pathology

  • When previous bariatric surgery has been performed in the past, it is also important to assess the anatomy and look for other abnormalities that can present, that may require intervention.

How is the gastroscopy performed?

The procedure is done as a day procedure usually under a sedation administered by the anaesthetist, where you will not be awake or aware of any of the procedure.

Sometimes a numbing agent is sprayed in your throat also.

The procedure only takes a few minutes.  You will be asked to lay on your side and a bite-block placed between your teeth to stop you from biting on the gastroscopy.

The gastroscope is a flexible tube about as wide as your little finger, that is passed down your throat through your mouth, to inspect the food pipe (your oesophagus), the stomach and first part of the small intestine. Some biopsies may be taken.


Click HERE to watch an animation about how a gastroscopy is performed

Risks of a gastroscopy

The procedure is very safe.

Occasionally damage can occur to teeth, lips, gums from the scope or mouth piece to protect the scope.

Missed pathology, causing bleeding or perforation are all rare and unlikely risks.

Discomfort, bloating, sore throat are all possible side effects from the procedure.

Sometimes a second procedure may be required.

Aspiration pneumonia is uncommon.

Blood Products Administration

Not required / Not applicable

Clinical Photography and Video

It is standard practice for Dr Wong to capture images whilst performing the gastroscopy procedure and it form part of the medical report for your surgery stored with the hospital and Dr Wong's practice.

Patient Consent

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Consenting Doctor

To sign prior to procedure once details have been confirmed

Dr Jason Wong

General, Upper GI and Bariatric Surgeon

Operating out of North West Private Hospital and Mater Private Hospital

Dr Aaron Lim

General, Upper GI and Bariatric Surgeon

Operating out of North West Private Hospital, Mater Redland Hospital,  Moreton Day Hospital

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