Gastroscopy (OGD) in Nairobi: Ulcers, Reflux & Upper GI Endoscopy

Duration

10-20 minutes for the examination; plan for 2-3 hours at the clinic in total

Preparation

No food for at least 6 hours; clear water is allowed until 2 hours before, unless your doctor advises otherwise

Sedation & Comfort

Throat spray, with or without intravenous sedation, agreed with you before the procedure

Recovery

Observation for 30-60 minutes; no driving for 24 hours if sedated

Overview

About this procedure

Gastroscopy (OGD) uses a flexible camera to examine the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine, with biopsies taken in the same sitting when needed.

Gastroscopy, also called oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD) or upper endoscopy, is an examination of the lining of the oesophagus (food pipe), the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). A thin, flexible tube carrying a high-definition camera and light is passed through the mouth, and the images are displayed on a monitor for the endoscopist.

It is the standard test for investigating persistent heartburn, upper abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood or passing black stools and unexplained anaemia. Because tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken during the examination, many conditions can be diagnosed in a single visit, including inflammation, ulcers and Helicobacter pylori infection.

What is included

Biopsies taken in the same sitting
Throat spray or sedation, chosen with you beforehand
High-definition imaging
Continuous monitoring of oxygen level, heart rate and blood pressure
Written report after your procedure
Private recovery room

Expected outcomes

A diagnosis for upper digestive symptoms
Tissue samples for laboratory analysis where needed
Identification of ulcers and the cause of upper GI bleeding
Confirmation or exclusion of Helicobacter pylori infection
A written plan for treatment or follow-up

Anatomical Guide

Anatomical pathway & scope orientation

**Clinical Figure:**Anatomical pathway of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (OGD) through the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.

Clinical Scope

Procedures we perform

Diagnostic gastroscopy (OGD)

Examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum

Biopsy collection

Tissue samples sent for laboratory analysis

Reflux and heartburn assessment

Inspection for oesophagitis and hiatus hernia

Ulcer and gastritis evaluation

Including testing for Helicobacter pylori

PEG tube insertion

Feeding tube placement for patients who cannot swallow safely

Key benefits of this procedure

No incisions: the examination is carried out through the mouth
Direct view of the lining, rather than inferring from symptoms or X-rays
Biopsies allow a tissue diagnosis at the time of the examination
Most patients go home the same day
Bleeding from ulcers can be assessed and treated where appropriate

Patient Pathway

Step-by-step clinical sequence

Step 1 of 6

Consultation
Your doctor reviews your symptoms, medical history and medications, particularly blood thinners and diabetes treatment. The procedure, its risks and the sedation options are explained and your consent is taken.
Preparation
Do not eat for at least 6 hours beforehand. Clear water is allowed until 2 hours before. Your doctor will tell you which regular medicines to take or hold on the day.
Arrival
Arrive 30 minutes early. Your identity and consent are checked, a small cannula is placed in a vein if sedation is planned and your vital signs are recorded.
The examination
You lie on your left side. The endoscope is passed through the mouth and the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum are examined in turn. Biopsies are taken if needed. The examination normally lasts 10 to 20 minutes.
Recovery
You are observed for 30 to 60 minutes. The endoscopist explains what was seen. If you were sedated, an adult must take you home and you must not drive for 24 hours.
Results
Biopsy results are usually available within about a week. A written report and a plan for any treatment or follow-up are provided.

Clinical Safety & Indications

Indications, risks and aftercare

When this procedure is recommended

Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
Stomach and duodenal ulcers
Upper abdominal pain or indigestion that does not settle
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Vomiting blood or passing black stools
Iron-deficiency anaemia without a clear cause
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Unintentional weight loss

When it may be deferred or unsuitable

Suspected perforation of the oesophagus, stomach or bowel
Recent heart attack or unstable heart or lung disease, until stabilised
Severe bleeding disorder or blood-thinning medication that cannot be safely paused for biopsy
Inability to cooperate safely with the examination without general anaesthesia
Pregnancy: deferred unless the examination is clearly essential

Recognised risks and complications

Sore throat and bloating after the procedure; both settle within hours
Reaction to sedation, including slowed breathing or a drop in blood pressure; you are monitored throughout
Bleeding, usually after a biopsy; it is normally minor and stops without treatment
Perforation (a tear in the wall of the oesophagus or stomach): rare, and may require hospital treatment

Discharge and aftercare instructions

Resume normal activities the day after the procedure if you were sedated
Do not drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol or sign legal documents for 24 hours after sedation
Seek urgent care for severe chest or abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stools, fever or difficulty swallowing
Attend your results consultation to discuss any biopsy findings
Follow any medication or dietary advice given in your report

Infection control & monitoring standards

All equipment thoroughly cleaned and sterilized
Your vital signs monitored throughout the procedure
Emergency equipment ready if needed
Health check before your procedure
New disposable parts used for each patient
Comfortable recovery room with experienced nurses

This guide provides general patient information and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Your attending doctor will explain the specific preparation, risks and alternatives relevant to your medical history.

Common Questions

Frequently asked questions

Is gastroscopy painful?

It is uncomfortable rather than painful. The throat is numbed with a spray, and sedation is available. Afterwards you may have a mild sore throat and some bloating, which settle within a few hours.

Can I eat and drink afterwards?

If your throat was numbed with a spray, wait until the numbness has worn off, usually 1 to 2 hours, before eating or drinking. After sedation you can eat once you are fully awake, starting with light food.

When will I get the results?

The endoscopist explains what was seen once you have recovered. If biopsies were taken, the laboratory results usually take about a week.

Why is gastroscopy recommended for reflux?

Most reflux is treated with medication and lifestyle changes. Gastroscopy is advised when symptoms persist despite treatment, or if there are warning signs such as difficulty swallowing, vomiting, weight loss, anaemia or bleeding.

Is a colonoscopy done at the same time?

The two examinations are separate, but they can be arranged on the same day when clinically appropriate. Colonoscopy requires bowel preparation, which is explained on the colonoscopy page.

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