Is a gastroscope the same as an endoscope?
Is a gastroscope the same as an endoscope?
A gastroscopy is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is used to look inside the oesophagus (gullet), stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It’s also sometimes referred to as an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The endoscope has a light and a camera at one end.
What is a gastroscope used for?
Contents. A gastroscopy is a test to check inside your throat, food pipe (oesophagus) and stomach, known as the upper part of your digestive system. This test can help find what’s causing your symptoms.
What is a gastroscopy in medical terms?

Listen to pronunciation. (gas-TROS-koh-pee) Examination of the inside of the stomach using a gastroscope passed through the mouth and esophagus. A gastroscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing.
What are different types of endoscopes?
Types of endoscopy
Name of procedure | Name of tool | How endoscope reaches target area |
---|---|---|
Cystoscopy | Cystoscope | Inserted through the urethra |
Esophagoscopy | Esophagoscope | Inserted through the mouth |
Gastroscopy | Gastroscope | Inserted through the mouth |
Laparoscopy | Laparoscope | Inserted through a small, surgical opening in the abdomen |
Why do I need a gastroscopy and colonoscopy?
Your doctor may recommend a gastroscopy or a colonoscopy to screen for stomach or colon cancer. The aim of screening is to detect cancers at an early curable stage even before you have any symptoms.

Is gastroscopy a surgery?
Gastroscopy is a safe procedure and serious complications are rare. Complications can occasionally happen when the gastroscopy involves a surgical procedure such as the removal of polyps or a biopsy. Bleeding may occur if a blood vessel is accidentally damaged, or the lining of the digestive tract is torn.
How long does it take to recover from a gastroscopy?
After a gastroscopy You should be able to go home as soon as you feel well enough to. For most people, this will be within a few hours. If you have sedation, you’ll need someone to take you home and stay with you for 24 hours.