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Private gastroscopy in Vienna
During a gastroscopy I examine the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. The examination is often used to investigate upper abdominal complaints and possible reflux disease, as well as for screening. I perform all gastroscopies under sedation.
Screening gastroscopy without a practice appointment: If you have no particular symptoms, a direct appointment request is possible. If you have heartburn, reflux, abdominal pain or difficulty swallowing, please come to the practice for a preliminary consultation first.
What can be assessed with a gastroscopy?
The endoscope provides images of the lining. If necessary, I take tissue samples for microscopic examination. This allows visible abnormalities to be classified more precisely. Inflammatory changes, ulcers or other suspicious findings can also be investigated.
Gastroscopy as part of a reflux assessment
Heartburn and acid regurgitation can indicate reflux. Gastroscopy shows whether there are changes in the lining of the oesophagus or signs of a hiatus hernia. However, a normal endoscopic finding does not rule out reflux disease. Gastroscopy alone therefore does not answer every question about the cause and extent of the symptoms.
I will discuss with you whether further tests such as reflux monitoring or functional testing are necessary. A decision to operate is not based on the symptom of heartburn alone. You will find detailed information on further reflux assessment and surgical treatment at reflux-chirurgie.at.
How does the examination work?
After preparation and induction of sedation, I insert the flexible endoscope through the mouth. I assess the sections examined and, depending on the clinical question, take samples. These are then examined under the microscope by a pathologist, who assesses, among other things, whether inflammation or precancerous changes are present. The samples are also always tested for a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori. It can promote inflammation of the stomach lining and is a risk factor for stomach cancer. The histology result is available about 3–5 days after the gastroscopy.
What preparation is required?
Your stomach must be sufficiently empty. You will receive precise instructions in good time on when you may last eat and drink and how to handle your medication. Bowel cleansing is not necessary for a gastroscopy on its own. If a colonoscopy is carried out at the same time, you will need the corresponding bowel preparation.
Can I combine gastroscopy and colonoscopy?
If both examinations are medically advisable, they are usually carried out in one session. This means only one appointment with sedation is required. However, the billing arrangements remain different: even when combined, you pay for the gastroscopy yourself.
After the examination
Even after a gastroscopy on its own, you will be monitored and cared for in the recovery room. Discharge depends on your recovery but is usually possible after about one hour. Please note that you must not drive a vehicle on the day of the examination.
What are the limits and risks?
The examination does not replace a complete investigation of all digestive complaints. In particular, comprehensive testing for food intolerances is not my area of focus. Possible complications such as bleeding, injuries and reactions to the sedation are very rare. Severe pain, bleeding, breathing difficulties or fever after the examination must be assessed by a doctor promptly.