Gastroscopy: Everything you need to know
For many people, a gastroscopy is an examination that they dread. However, this concern is unfounded. You will be asleep during the gastroscopy, so the examination will not cause you any pain or discomfort.
A summary of what you need to know about gastroscopy can be found here:
What is a gastroscopy?
During gastroscopy (stomach examination), the upper part of the digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, is examined using an endoscope. Gastroscopy can be used to determine the causes of existing symptoms (e.g., Helicobacter, inflammation of the stomach lining/gastritis, reflux disease). Gastroscopy is therefore a subcategory of endoscopy, alongside colonoscopy and rectoscopy. A thin tube with a camera and light source at the end is inserted through the mouth and guided through the oesophagus directly into the stomach.
When is a gastroscopy necessary?
A gastroscopy can be performed for diagnostic or therapeutic reasons:
Diagnostic Reasons – Gastrointestinal Conditions
For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, a gastroscopy is often necessary in order to make a specific diagnosis. Further indications for gastroscopy are:
- Swallowing difficulties
- Heartburn
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Stomachache
- Reflux
A gastroscopy is also recommended for chronic coughing, unexplained weight loss, suspected stomach tumours, ulcers in the digestive tract or oesophageal diseases.
Therapeutic Reasons
This mainly concerns various medical procedures in the gastrointestinal tract:
- Removal of swallowed objects
- Removal of small tumors and polyps
- Stopping of bleeding
- Dilation in cases of esophageal narrowing
What happens during a gastroscopy?
Before the examination
As a patient, you should arrive for your examination on an empty stomach. You may have a light meal 6 hours before the gastroscopy, but nothing afterwards. You may drink water up to 1.5 hours before the examination.
Before the examination begins, you will be given information about the procedure and sedation, and the doctor will briefly clarify any questions you may still have.
During the examination
An IV line will be inserted and propofol administered so that you fall asleep immediately.
During the examination, an air-gas mixture is blown into the stomach to expand it slightly and make structures more visible. Tissue samples can now also be taken using various endoscope instruments. These are then sent to the laboratory for biopsy.
After the examination
After the approximately 20-minute examination, you will be woken up, get dressed, and can slowly wake up properly in a reclining chair in the recovery room, drink water, and eat a snack. The doctor will then come to you and give you the written findings, which will be discussed briefly. If medication is necessary, you will receive a prescription.
Around an hour after the examination, you will be fully alert again, but driving is not allowed.
The samples taken during gastroscopy are examined in the laboratory (biopsy). The results are sent to the coordination office after 7–10 days, translated into layman’s terms by the doctor, and sent to you by email or post (depending on your preference).
If you would like a detailed discussion of your findings, please make a separate appointment (30 minutes), which will be charged extra.
You pay the bill at reception (cash or card). Bank transfers are unfortunately not possible. We will also be happy to submit the invoice to your social security provider at your request.
Important Information for your Gastroscopy
- Arrive for your appointment on an empty stomach!
- An accompanying person is not required, but you are not allowed to drive yourself.
- Please arrive on time.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Gastroscopy (Stomach Endoscopy)
How long does a gastroscopy take?
The examination itself usually takes about 20 minutes. Afterwards, you can rest in our recovery room for about an hour and have a light snack and something to drink. Please allow around 1.5 to 2 hours for preparation (changing clothes, accessing the equipment), waking up and a brief debriefing.
Do I need to be fasting for the gastroscopy?
Yes. You should not eat anything for at least six hours before the procedure so as not to impair visibility in the stomach and to avoid the risk of aspiration. You may drink water up to 1.5 hours before the examination.
Can I take my medication before the examination?
Most medicines can be taken as usual. If you are taking blood-thinning medication, please discuss this with your doctor in advance.
Is the procedure painful?
No. You will be put into a twilight sleep with sedation so that you will not be aware of the examination itself. The examination is also carried out carefully and gently, so that there is minimal stress on the throat and larynx.
Can I eat normally after the gastroscopy?
Once the effects of the sleeping medication have worn off and you are in the recovery room, you may eat and drink as usual. We have prepared some light refreshments and water for you.
Can I drive after the examination?
No. After sedation, you must not drive a vehicle for at least 24 hours. If you need a car, make sure you arrange for someone to accompany you in advance. However, it is no problem to travel home alone by public transport.
What happens to the samples taken?
Tissue samples (biopsies) are examined in the laboratory. The results of the samples (biopsy) are usually available after 7 to 10 days and will be sent to you by email or post.
Is a combination of gastroscopy and colonoscopy possible?
Yes, of course! Both examinations can also be performed in a single session. Usually, the gastroscopy is performed first, followed by the colonoscopy.
Gastroscopy prices at Co-Ordination
Here you will find our prices for gastroscopy:
| Untersuchung | Preise |
|---|---|
| Gastroskopie | 400,00 € |
| Gastroskopie & Koloskopie | 850,00 € |
Reimbursement by health insurance companies (as of 2025)
Here you can see an overview of the reimbursements offered by the health insurance funds:
| Untersuchungen | ÖGK-W | SVS | BVAEB | KFA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gastroskopie + Sedierung | € 248,00 | € 243,00 | € 420,00 | € 426,00 |
| Gastroskopie + Koloskopie + Sedierung | € 471,00 | € 453,00 – 553,00 | € 935,00 | € 846,00 |
Further information on elective doctor bills and submission can be found here.
Schedule an appointment now!
Would you like to make an appointment for a gastroscopy?
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Doctors at the practice who offer gastroscopy:
What our patients say
From a DocFinder user
A few weeks ago, I underwent a gastroscopy with Dr. Ulbrich because of my reflux symptoms. Die Untersuchung verlief ohne Komplikationen, wurde höchst professionell und zu meiner vollsten Zufriedenheit durchgeführt. Immediately after the examination, Dr. Ulbrich explained the preliminary results to me. A few days later, he took more than half an hour to discuss the final findings with me, explaining clearly and openly what conditions I had. Thanks to his professional expertise, I have finally found the right treatment for me. Due to his friendly, competent, and empathetic manner, I can highly recommend Dr. Ulbrich.
From a DocFinder user
Starting with the appointment scheduling, the reception at the practice, and following that the consultations/treatment with Dr. Ulbrich, everything is 100% recommendable. I have never had as much confidence in a doctor as I do in Dr. Ulbrich. The preliminary consultation for the colonoscopy was easy to understand, and all my questions were answered to my complete satisfaction. The colonoscopy appointment was available at very short notice, and the examination was extremely professional and not unpleasant in any way. The preliminary results were explained by Dr. Ulbrich immediately after the examination, and the final findings with explanations were sent to me by email. If necessary, I will certainly consult Co-Ordination or Dr. Ulbrich again.
From a DocFinder user
I had my first gastrointestinal and colonoscopy screening examination on October 6, 2022, with Dr. Ulbrich. During this initial contact, I was able to address my fears and express my desire to be informed about the examination.
not to be aware of anything, especially to be able to fall asleep immediately.
Furthermore, I was able to build confidence and trust during the patient consultation.
The promise to sleep before the examination was completely fulfilled, and I woke up feeling relaxed.
I would like to pass on my experience as a source of comfort to other patients.
Afterwards, Dr. Ulbrich took the time to discuss the findings in detail. With his professional expertise and calm manner, I felt I was in good hands. A huge THANK YOU.
From a DocFinder user
I got to know Dr. Bognar as a competent physician who addresses complaints in detail and counteracts nervousness with calmness and humor during a gastroscopy. Exemplary explanation before the procedure, comprehensive discussion of findings afterwards. An appointment for the initial consultation could be made within two weeks, with follow-up appointments available at shorter notice. All in all, highly recommended.
From a DocFinder user
I came across Dr. Ulbrich on the internet while searching for someone who knows about iron deficiency. It was nice that the initial contact was made via email, with lab referrals and discussion of findings all done via email, which was convenient as it saved a lot of time. Iron infusion administered quickly and competently, follow-up check also via e-mail with laboratory assignment and discussion of findings via e-mail. Also in personal dealings, Mr. Dr Ulrich made a friendly and competent impression. Anytime again!
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