This is an investigative procedure used to inspect and photograph the inside of the esophagus, abdomen or stomach. It is performed in patients demonstrating a wide variety of symptoms, such as: reflux, heartburn, bleeding and sputum production and helps your doctor to determine the cause of these symptoms.

The procedure is performed by passing a soft flexible fiber-optic tube (called an endoscope) through the mouth down into the interior of the stomach. Biopsies may be taken during the procedure. You will be asleep for the procedure (under a general anesthetic).

This is a day procedure, which allows you to come into the hospital and go home on the same day. The scope usually takes about half-an-hour and carries with it minor risks of bleeding and infection aside from the risks associated with anesthesia. There is also a very small risk of the scope creating a hole (perforation). This may be serious and need surgery to fix. Because you are given sedation, you must have a ride home. Please note that a taxi, UBER or public transit is not acceptable

Before Scope

• You must NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING (including water) after midnight the night before your procedure
• Your dinner should consist only of clear fluids (ie. chicken broth, apple juice, water)
• Please consult your GP regarding instructions on when to stop taking your blood thinners
• If you are on a J tube, please stop feeds before 4am
• If you take oral medication for diabetes, please skip your pill on the morning of your scope
• If you take insulin, take 1/2 dose in the morning before 6am with a TINY bit of apple or orange juice
• Please bring your Health Card with you
• A $50 charge will apply if you do not cancel within 24hrs of this procedure