An Important Exam Requires Careful Preparation

Your doctor has decided that gastroscopy is necessary to better evaluate your upper digestive tract. An important examination such as this requires proper preparation. The results obtained from this exam are dependent on your stomach being empty. Food particles inside the stomach can hide important conditions that may be present and may increase the risk of aspiration (choking) during the examination. Therefore, it is very important that you follow the instructions below. If you have any questions, please call our office - 310-385-7755

Day Before Your Examination

There are no restrictions on food, drink, or activity on the day before your test. Unlike colonoscopy, there is no laxative prep for this exam.

Morning of the Examination

Your stomach must be empty during gastroscopy so that your doctor's view is not blocked by particles of food. If your test is scheduled in the morning, you must not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the test. You may gargle and brush your teeth in the morning. If your test is scheduled in the afternoon, you may have only liquids - such as juice, coffee, tea, or broth - for breakfast. Then begin fasting. You should not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before the exam. You may take all of your regular medications unless otherwise directed. No Insulin. If your are on Coumadin, ask for instructions several days before your appointment.

You should arrive at the Center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. We will complete your registration, have you change clothing, perform any pre-operative orders which might be required by your physician, and answer any questions you might have. Please be on time so that you don't cause a delay which could affect many other patients within the same day.

Since sedation is utilized, YOU MUST BRING A COMPANION WITH YOU who is responsible and is able to drive you home after your procedure and to assist you with follow-up care, or you can use our Limo service for your transportation.