Nasal gastroscopy
In nasal gastroscopy a very thin scope is passed through the nose into the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. The method is gentle, and you can talk and breathe normally throughout.
Endoscopic Examination of the Esophagus and Stomach (Gastroscopy)
Gastroscopy is an endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Nasal gastroscopy represents the latest development and is the gentlest gastroscopic method.
The nasal gastroscope, which has a diameter of just 4.9 mm, is inserted through a nostril. Nasal Gastroscopy provides a precise view of the inside of the mentioned organs and can identify causes of difficulty swallowing, stomach pain, heartburn, etc. It is also possible (and painless) to take tissue samples for microscopic and bacteriological examination (Helicobacter).
At Kirurgen.dk, endoscopic examinations such as Nasal Gastroscopy are performed with digital video technology, and you can, if you wish, follow along on the TV screen.
Preparation for Nasal Gastroscopy
A full stomach cannot be examined. Therefore, you must not eat 10 hours before and not drink 3 hours before your endoscopic examination. Avoid large meals and especially dairy products on the day of the examination. Necessary medication may be taken with a glass of water.
Endoscopic Examination
During a nasal gastroscopy, the nose is anesthetized with a clear gel (Xylocaine). Both nostrils are anesthetized to allow selection of the one with the best space, as the conditions of space are constantly changing. During the examination itself, you lie on your left side. After insertion through the nose, you will be asked to swallow, after which the scope easily passes down into the esophagus. You then swallow if you feel the need to. During the Nasal Gastroscopy examination, your mouth is "free", so breathing is unhindered, and you can swallow and speak normally.
A Nasal Gastroscopy endoscopic examination rarely lasts more than 5 minutes. The stomach of a fasting person is empty and collapsed. To be able to see, a little air is blown into the stomach. This can cause the urge to burp, which should be suppressed during the examination. In a very few cases, there is not enough space in the nose. In these cases, the scope is inserted through the mouth. This does not require further anesthesia.
After the Examination
Due to the local anesthesia in the throat, there is a small risk of getting food and drink down the "wrong pipe". However, you can eat and drink again after just 20 minutes. Start with a little water.
Is Nasal Gastroscopy Dangerous?
Complications related to nasal gastroscopy occur but are so rare in experienced hands that there is no cause for concern.
FAQ: Nasal Gastroscopy (Examination through the nose)
What is the advantage of nasal gastroscopy over oral? Nasal gastroscopy (through the nose) significantly reduces the gag reflex compared to the oral method. Since the endoscope is ultra-thin and bypasses the base of the tongue, patients experience significantly less discomfort and a lower stress level during the procedure.
References: Source: Yagi J, Adachi K, Arima N, et al. A randomized comparison of the patient's tolerance of transnasal and peroral esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. 2001;54(5):568-574. PMID: 11404694
Is anesthesia necessary for nasal gastroscopy? Since the ultra-thin scope does not touch the sensitive areas of the pharynx, often only a light local anesthetic in the nose is required. Patients are generally more relaxed and have the advantage of being able to communicate with the doctor during the examination itself.
(Source:_ Preiss C, Wiedbrauck F, Dumoulin FL. Safety and patient's tolerance of transnasal gastroscopy: a prospective study in 190 unselected patients. Zeitschrift für Gastroenterologie. 2004;42(8):745-748. PMID: 15305011
Gastroscopy
CONTACT INFORMATION
Hans Edvard Teglers Vej 9, 1.sal. 2920 Charlottenlund
APPOINTMENT BOOKING
We are on the phone Monday-Thursday from 09-12
FOR REFERRING DOCTORS
Ydernummer 215430
How to book
Online booking is not available. Call the clinic or ask your GP for a referral.
With a referral from your GP, treatment is free under the Danish public health insurance.
Call the clinic
+45 39 64 01 25
Phone hours
Phone hours: Mon–Thu 09:00–12:00
Address
Hans Edvard Teglers Vej 9, 1st floor · 2920 Charlottenlund
Frequently asked questions
What is nasal gastroscopy?+
Nasal gastroscopy is an endoscopic examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum in which an ultra-thin 4.9 mm scope is passed through one nostril instead of the mouth. It is the gentlest gastroscopy method and produces markedly less gag reflex than the classic oral examination.
What is the difference between gastroscopy through the nose and the mouth?+
The difference is the route. Through the nose we bypass the base of the tongue where the gag reflex sits, so most people find it more comfortable and can speak and breathe freely during the examination. Through the mouth a slightly thicker scope is used and gagging is more common. Both methods see the same structures inside the stomach.
What anaesthesia is used for gastroscopy?+
For nasal gastroscopy the nostril is numbed with a clear local anaesthetic gel (Xylocaine). That is usually enough because the thin scope avoids the tongue base. For oral gastroscopy the throat is anaesthetised, and sedation can be added. General anaesthesia is rarely needed.
How long does a gastroscopy take?+
The examination itself usually takes 5 minutes, rarely more than 10. Plan for about 1 hour in total including consultation, examination and a short observation afterwards.
How do I prepare for a gastroscopy?+
You must fast. No food for 10 hours and no liquids for 3 hours before the examination. Avoid dairy and large meals that day. Essential medication (e.g. blood-pressure pills) may be taken with a small sip of water. Blood thinners must be discussed in advance.
Is nasal gastroscopy painful?+
No. Most people do not find it painful – only a brief sensation of pressure in the nose when the scope is inserted. The local anaesthetic works quickly, and the gag reflex is avoided because the tongue base is not touched.
Can I eat and drink after a gastroscopy?+
Wait about 20 minutes. The local anaesthetic in the nose and throat can reduce the swallowing reflex, so start with a small sip of water before solid food. You may drive and work the rest of the day if you have not received sedation.