Key Takeaways
- What it is: An upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy) provides direct visualisation, and when appropriate, treatment of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.
- When it’s used: Recommended for persistent reflux, dysphagia, bleeding/anaemia, Barrett’s surveillance, and pre-/post-operative review.
- What it can do: Detects oesophagitis, ulcers, Barrett’s changes and early lesions; enables biopsies and therapeutic steps (dilation, haemostasis, polyp removal).
- Surgery linkage: Findings guide decisions about upper gastrointestinal surgery and are discussed within multidisciplinary care pathways.
- Safety first: Complications are uncommon; preparation (fasting, medication review) and clear recovery advice help keep the endoscopy procedure safe and effective.
An upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, also known as gastroscopy, allows your doctor to look directly at the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small bowel (duodenum). Seeing these areas clearly can reveal issues that scans or blood tests might miss.
In Melbourne and across Victoria, gastroscopies are done in accredited hospitals and day procedure centres. Dr Alex Craven, an Upper Gastrointestinal and General Surgeon, performs these procedures as part of his routine care. The results help him confirm a diagnosis and plan the proper treatment, using methods that are safe and supported by evidence.
When Endoscopy Is Recommended
An upper endoscopy procedure is often advised when patients experience persistent or unexplained symptoms. Typical indications include:
- Ongoing reflux despite treatment
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), especially if progressive
- Unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia or suspected bleeding
- Barrett’s oesophagus surveillance
- Pre-operative planning for reflux or hiatal hernia surgery
- Post-operative review after stomach or oesophageal operations
Recommendations are individualised after weighing symptoms, risks, and overall health priorities.
What Endoscopy Can Reveal
Endoscopy is highly effective at detecting:
- Oesophageal issues: inflammation, strictures, rings, Barrett’s changes, hiatal hernia
- Stomach/duodenum: ulcers, erosions, polyps, bleeding sites
- Early neoplasia or pre-cancerous change: lesions that benefit from early detection
- Microscopic disease: coeliac or subtle inflammation identified on biopsy, even when the lining looks normal
This combination of direct visualisation and tissue sampling makes endoscopy one of the most informative tests in gastrointestinal care.
Therapeutic and Advanced Applications
Many conditions can be treated during the same session, reducing the need for separate procedures:
- Dilation of narrowed areas to improve swallowing
- Haemostasis using clips, injection or heat to control bleeding
- Polyp removal (where appropriate)
- Stent placement to relieve obstruction
- Foreign body retrieval when items do not pass naturally
These capabilities can sometimes avoid emergency surgery; in other cases, they provide the detail needed to plan upper gastrointestinal surgery safely.
Supporting Surgical Decisions
For patients considering anti-reflux or hiatal hernia operations, endoscopy clarifies mucosal health and hiatus anatomy. In cancer pathways, it enables biopsy and mapping before gastrectomy or oesophagectomy is performed. Post-operatively, it helps identify strictures, leaks, or areas that need further care. Findings are often discussed in multidisciplinary meetings to ensure that recommendations reflect the combined expertise of surgery, gastroenterology, oncology, radiology, and dietetics.
Risks and Safety
Endoscopy is considered safe, but all procedures carry risk. Patients are counselled beforehand about:
- Common, short-lived effects: sore throat, bloating, sedation-related drowsiness
- Less common complications: bleeding after biopsy or therapy
- Rare events: perforation, severe reactions to sedation, aspiration
Some conditions affect how the oesophagus functions rather than its appearance. Even if the endoscopy appears normal, your doctor may recommend further tests, such as pH monitoring, impedance studies, or manometry, to investigate your symptoms. These procedures are carried out in accredited hospitals and day centres by qualified teams, with strict monitoring systems in place to keep risks as low as possible.
Preparation and Recovery
Good preparation supports accuracy and safety:
- Follow fasting instructions exactly
- Bring a complete medication list (highlight anticoagulants/antiplatelets, diabetes meds)
- List allergies and relevant medical history; bring prior reports if available
- Arrange a support person and transport home
Recovery is usually straightforward. Most patients experience brief throat discomfort or bloating. Results seen during the procedure are explained on the day; biopsy reports typically follow within several days. Follow-up is tailored to findings and may involve a GP, gastroenterologist or surgeon.
Urgent Situations
Specific red-flag symptoms require urgent assessment and may prompt immediate endoscopy:
- Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools
- Severe or rapidly worsening difficulty swallowing
- Collapse or signs of significant blood loss
Emergency pathways in Melbourne hospitals provide rapid access when these occur.
Endoscopy in Context
Endoscopy often sits alongside other investigations to build a complete picture:
- Imaging: barium swallow, CT or MRI for structure and staging
- Functional tests: pH monitoring, impedance and manometry for reflux and motility patterns
Combining results ensures that recommendations are precise and tailored to each patient. An endoscopy is delivered in accordance with strict professional standards. Dr Alex Craven undertakes endoscopy in accredited facilities and works closely with gastroenterologists, anaesthetists and radiologists. The team-based approach places findings into the broader context of a patient’s health, ensuring consistent, evidence-based care. If you are troubled by reflux, difficulty swallowing or unexplained digestive symptoms, speak with your GP about whether an endoscopy procedure may be appropriate. With a referral, you can book a consultation with Dr Alex Craven to review your history and discuss the next steps. Medical disclaimer: This information is general and does not constitute individual medical advice. Suitability, risks and recovery vary and are confirmed in consultation with a qualified clinician. Seek urgent care for severe pain, vomiting blood, black stools, fainting or sudden inability to swallow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an endoscopy painful?
Sedation keeps you comfortable; a mild sore throat or bloating can occur and usually settles quickly.
How long does it take, and can I drive afterwards?
Scope time is often 10–20 minutes. Allow several hours, including recovery, and do not drive, drink alcohol or sign legal documents for 24 hours after sedation.
Will I need to stop blood thinners or other medicines?
Medications are reviewed in advance. Do not stop or change them unless advised; your team will provide a safe plan for anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and diabetes medications.
When will I get results?
Visual findings are discussed the same day. Biopsy results are typically available within a few business days and guide the follow-up plan.
What if my endoscopy is normal, but I still have symptoms?
Some conditions are functional or microscopic. Your doctor may arrange additional tests (e.g., pH/impedance monitoring, manometry, targeted imaging) to clarify the cause.
