Mount Elizabeth Orchard
Call us at
6737 8878
Click for appointment
Gleneagles Hospital
Call us at
6475 1488
Click for appointment

Endoscopy

Home
Services
Endoscopy

Introduction to Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to examine the digestive tract using a thin, flexible tube with a camera. By providing a clear, real-time view of your digestive system, endoscopy aids in early detection and intervention, ensuring timely care. The main types of endoscopies are gastroscopy and colonoscopy.

Gastroscopy (OGD)

A gastroscopy, or oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD), examines the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the oesophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine. It is used to detect conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, and stomach or oesophageal cancer.

When Should You Consider an OGD?

A gastroscopy may help assess symptoms such as:

  • Heartburn or acid reflux
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
  • Unexplained nausea and vomiting

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy provides a detailed view of the colon and rectum to detect abnormalities such as inflammation, polyps, or cancer. If needed, this procedure may also be used to remove polyps or collect tissue samples for further analysis as well.

When Do I Need a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is commonly recommended for colorectal cancer screening if you are 50 years or older, even if you have no symptoms. It may be recommended earlier if you have:

  • A personal or family history of colorectal cancer
  • A personal or family history of colorectal polyps
  • A history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

A colonoscopy may also help assess symptoms such as:

  • Persistent lower abdominal pain
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Chronic diarrhoea or constipation
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Unexplained nausea and vomiting
Listening to Your Body Matters—Get Checked Today

If you have persistent heartburn, rectal bleeding or other digestive issues, an endoscopy is a quick, painless way to find answers and take charge of your health.

Enquire Now

Preparing for an Endoscopy

Following your doctor’s instructions is essential to avoid rescheduling and ensure clear visibility during the procedure.

Before a Gastroscopy Fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure to keep your stomach empty. This helps your doctor see clearly and reduces the chance of vomiting afterwards.

Before a Colonoscopy Perform bowel preparation, which usually involves taking a prescribed laxative the day before to cleanse your bowels. Stick to a clear liquid diet (broth, tea, sports drinks) and avoid solid food. You may experience mild bloating, cramping, or nausea.

What Happens During an Endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a quick and painless procedure. During the procedure, you will be comfortably positioned while the scope is gently inserted into your body – through the mouth (gastroscopy) or anus (colonoscopy). Throughout the procedure, you will be relaxed and may be given a mild sedative to ensure comfort.

What Happens After the Procedure?

Both procedures are generally safe and well-tolerated by patients. However, some mild side effects may occur:

  • Gastroscopy

    – Temporary throat irritation, mild bloating, or belching may occur

  • Colonoscopy

    – Mild gas discomfort due to air introduced during the procedure

The doctor should be able to discuss the initial findings right after the procedure. If a biopsy is taken, results will be available within a few days.

Most people can return to normal activities the next day, but mild drowsiness from sedation may linger. Following your doctor’s advice will help ensure a smooth recovery.

Endoscopy Is Insurance-claimable

The cost of an endoscopy is MediSave deductible and may be covered by medical insurance. At the Digestive & Liver Surgery Centre, we are on the following insurance panels:

Panel Specialist – Integrated Shield Plan:
Panel Specialist – Corporate Insurance:

Meet Our Endoscopy Specialist

Dr Tan Ek Khoon

Senior Consultant Surgeon

MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Singapore), MPH (USA),
FRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (General Surgery)

Dr Tan is a skilled surgeon with extensive experience in performing endoscopies, including OGD and colonoscopy. With advanced training in the US, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the diagnosis and treatment of digestive conditions. For his commitment to providing the best possible care for his patients, Dr Tan has earned multiple awards for service excellence.

Our dedicated team is ready to support you every step of the way.

Send us a message and we will be in touch shortly.

Send Enquiry Now

6 Napier Road, #10-01, Gleneagles Medical Centre, Singapore 258499

Tel: +65 6475 1488
Fax: +65 6475 1489
Email: info@liversurgery.com

Opening Hours Mon – Fri: 9am to 5pm
Sat: 9am to 12pm
Closed on Sunday and Public Holidays

Blog