Gastroscopy: everything you need to know

A gastroscopy is an examination that many people approach with anxiety. However, the worry is unfounded. During the gastroscopy, you are asleep – so there is no pain or discomfort associated with the procedure.

Here is a summary of what you need to know about a gastroscopy:

What is a gastroscopy?

During gastroscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy, the upper part of the digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine), is examined using an endoscope. Through gastroscopy, it is possible to investigate the causes of existing symptoms, such as Helicobacter infection, gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Gastroscopy is therefore, along with colonoscopy and rectoscopy, a subcategory of endoscopy. In this procedure, a thin tube with a camera and light source at the end is inserted through the mouth and guided down the esophagus directly into the stomach.

When is a gastroscopy necessary?

A gastroscopy can be performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic reasons:

Diagnostic Reasons – Gastrointestinal Conditions

For conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, a gastroscopy is often necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Further indications for gastroscopy include:

A gastroscopy is also recommended in cases of chronic cough, unexplained weight loss, suspected stomach tumors, ulcers in the digestive tract, or esophageal disorders.

Therapeutic Reasons

This primarily involves various medical procedures within the gastrointestinal tract:

What happens during a gastroscopy?

Before the examination

You arrive for the examination on an empty stomach. You may have a light meal up to 6 hours before the gastroscopy, but nothing afterward. You may drink water up to 1.5 hours before the examination.

Before the procedure begins, you will receive information about the examination and sedation, as well as have a brief discussion with the doctor to address any remaining questions.

During the examination

An intravenous line is placed, and propofol is administered, causing you to fall asleep immediately.

During the procedure, an air-gas mixture is blown into the stomach to slightly expand it and make structures more visible. Using various instruments attached to the endoscope, tissue samples can also be taken. These samples 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 gradually become fully awake in a recovery room recliner, where you may drink water and have a light snack. The doctor will then come to you and provide you with the written report, which will be briefly discussed. If medications are necessary, you will be given a prescription.

Around an hour after the examination, you will be fully alert again, but driving is not allowed.

The samples taken during the gastroscopy are examined in the laboratory (biopsy), and the results are sent to the Co-Ordination within 7-10 days. The doctor translates the findings into layman’s terms and sends them to you via email or postal mail, according to your preference.

If you would like a detailed discussion of your results, please schedule a separate 30-minute appointment, which will be billed separately.

You pay the bill at the reception (by cash or card). Unfortunately, bank transfers are not accepted. Upon request, we are happy to submit the invoice to your social insurance provider on your behalf.

Important Information for Your Gastroscopy

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Gastroscopy (Stomach Endoscopy)

How long does a gastroscopy take?

The procedure 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. Including preparation (changing clothes, inserting the IV), waking up, and a brief follow-up discussion, please allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours in total.

Do I need to be fasting for the gastroscopy?

Yes. You should not eat anything for at least six hours before the procedure to ensure a clear view of 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 medications can be taken as usual. If you are taking blood-thinning medications, please discuss this with your doctor in advance.

Is the procedure painful?

No. You will be sedated into a twilight sleep, so you won’t be aware of the procedure itself. The procedure is also carried out carefully and gently, so that the throat and larynx are only minimally affected.

Can I eat normally after the gastroscopy?

Once the effects of the sedative have worn off and you are in the recovery room, you may eat and drink as usual. We will have prepared light snacks and water for you.

Can I drive after the examination?

No. After sedation, you are not allowed to drive any vehicle for at least 24 hours. Please arrange for someone to accompany you in advance if you rely on a car for transportation. However, it is no problem to travel home alone using public transportation.

What happens to the samples taken?

Tissue samples (biopsies) are examined in a laboratory. The results of the samples (biopsy) are usually available within 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 one session. Usually, the gastroscopy is performed first, followed by the colonoscopy.

Gastroscopy prices at Co-Ordination

Here you can find the prices for a gastroscopy in our medical centre:

Untersuchung	Preise
Gastroskopie	380,00 €
Gastroskopie & Koloskopie	810,00 €

Reimbursement by Health Insurance Providers (as of 2025)

Here is an overview of the reimbursements provided by the health insurance providers:

Untersuchungen	ÖGK-W	SVS	BVAEB	KFA
Gastroskopie + Sedierung	€ 174,20	€ 235,19	€ 283,13	€ 323,18
Gastroskopie + Koloskopie + Sedierung	€ 325,89	€ 438,41	€ 630,41	€ 614,03

Further information on private practice invoices and submission can be found here.

Schedule an appointment now!

Would you like to book a gastroscopy?
Contact us by phone or book directly online:

Doctors at the practice who offer gastroscopy:

Dr. Gregor Ulbrich

Dr. Hartwig Bognar

Dr. Ursula Harrer

DDr. Rafael Paternostro

What our patients say

A few weeks ago, I underwent an upper endoscopy for my reflux symptoms with Dr. Ulbrich. The examination went smoothly, was conducted with utmost professionalism, and to my complete satisfaction. Immediately after the examination, Dr. Ulbrich explained the preliminary results to me. For the discussion of the final findings a few days later, he also took more than half an hour, explaining to me in an understandable and open manner the health conditions present in my case. Thanks to his professional expertise, I have finally found the right treatment for myself. Due to his friendly, competent, and empathetic nature, I can highly recommend Dr. Ulbrich to you.

Starting from the appointment scheduling, the reception at the practice, and subsequently the discussions/treatment with Dr. Ulbrich, everything is 100% recommendable. I had never had so much trust in a doctor before, like with Dr. Ulbrich. The pre-colonoscopy consultation was clear, and all my questions were answered to my fullest satisfaction. The appointment for the colonoscopy was arranged very quickly, the examination was extremely professional, and in no way uncomfortable. Dr. Ulbrich explained the preliminary results immediately after the examination, and the final report with explanations was sent to me via email. If necessary, I will certainly visit Co-Ordination or Dr. Ulbrich again.

I had my first appointment on October 6, 2022, with Senior Physician Dr. Ulbrich for a preventive examination of the gastro and colon. In this initial contact, I was able to address my fears and express the desire to have the examination done in a way that suits my comfort. Especially to not be aware of anything, and most importantly, to be able to fall asleep immediately. Furthermore, in the patient education discussion, I was able to build security and trust. The promise to fall asleep before the examination was completely fulfilled, and I woke up relaxed. I would like to share my experience as a source of comfort for other patients as well. Subsequently Dr. Ulbrich took the time for a detailed discussion of the findings. With his professionally competent knowledge and calm demeanor, I felt well taken care of. A big THANK YOU.

I came to know Dr. Bognar as a competent physician who addresses concerns in detail and, during a gastroscopy, counteracts nervousness with calmness and a sense of humor. Exemplary clarification before the procedure, comprehensive discussion of findings afterward. An appointment for the initial consultation was available within two weeks, and follow-up appointments were scheduled on shorter notice. All in all, highly recommended.

I came across Dr. Ulbrich on the internet, was looking for someone who is knowledgeable about iron deficiency. It was pleasant that the initial contact was through email, with the laboratory referral and discussion of results all done via email, which was convenient and time-saving. The iron infusion was done quickly and competently. Follow-up was also conducted via email, including laboratory referrals and discussion of results through email. Even in personal interactions, Dr. Ulrich made a friendly and competent impression. Anytime again!