Endoscopy & Gastroscopy in Brisbane
Day-stay gastroscopy (upper endoscopy) by GESA-accredited, specialist surgeon Dr Goutham Sivasuthan — to investigate reflux, pain, swallowing problems and bleeding, with biopsies where needed, across Brisbane, Redland, Moreton Bay and Logan.
Expert gastroscopy and upper endoscopy
A gastroscopy (upper endoscopy) is a day-stay procedure that examines the oesophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine using a slim, flexible camera. It is the gold-standard way to investigate upper-gut symptoms and to take biopsies when needed.
At Upper Edge Surgery, Dr Goutham — GESA-accredited in gastroscopy — provides advanced endoscopy to diagnose and treat digestive disorders with precision and comfort. Whether you have persistent heartburn, unexplained pain or difficulty swallowing, you receive personalised, expert care using the latest technology, and you meet Dr Goutham at the consultation before he performs your procedure personally.
What is a gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera (an endoscope) passed gently through the mouth to view the upper digestive tract on a screen. As well as inspecting the lining for inflammation, ulcers or abnormal growths, the endoscope can take painless biopsies, test for the H. pylori bacterium, and treat certain problems such as a bleeding ulcer or a narrowing (stricture).
Why might you need a gastroscopy?
- Persistent reflux or heartburn — to check for inflammation, a hiatus hernia or Barrett oesophagus. Learn about reflux →
- Chronic upper-abdominal pain or nausea — which may indicate ulcers, gastritis or H. pylori.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) — to look for strictures, rings or other causes.
- Unexplained vomiting or weight loss — needing investigation.
- Vomiting blood or black stools — signs of bleeding requiring urgent assessment.
- Iron-deficiency anaemia or suspected coeliac disease — confirmed with biopsies.
Conditions a gastroscopy can diagnose
Reflux & oesophagitis
Inflammation of the oesophagus from acid, and complications such as Barrett oesophagus.
Ulcers & gastritis
Inflammation or ulceration of the stomach lining, often linked to H. pylori or medications.
Hiatus hernia
Where part of the stomach slides up through the diaphragm, contributing to reflux.
Coeliac disease
Confirmed with small-bowel biopsies in patients with suggestive blood tests or symptoms.
How to prepare
- Fasting — no food for at least 6 hours; clear fluids may be allowed up to 2 hours before.
- Medications — tell the team about all your medicines; some, such as blood thinners, may need adjusting.
- Medical history — share allergies, diabetes and any past reactions to sedation.
- Transport — arrange someone to drive you home, as sedation affects your reflexes for the rest of the day.
What to expect on the day
Before
- Check-in & consent
- Cannula for sedation
- Throat numbing if used
During (10–20 min)
- Lie comfortably on your side
- Soft mouthguard protects your teeth
- Biopsies taken painlessly if needed
After (30–60 min)
- Rest until sedation wears off
- Preliminary findings explained
- Home the same day; no driving 24h
Gastroscopy cost — no-gap and fixed-price options
We keep cost clear and upfront:
- Privately insured patients: gastroscopy is offered as a no-gap service, with no out-of-pocket cost for the procedure for eligible patients with appropriate cover.
- Uninsured patients: a clear fixed-price package is available so you know the cost in advance.
Full pricing and no-gap details are available via our partner service: view Colonoscopy Brisbane pricing & no-gap options →. All costs are confirmed with you before your procedure.
Accurate diagnosis, comfortable care
- ✓GESA-accredited endoscopist — accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
- ✓High-definition technology — careful, thorough examination.
- ✓Patient-centred care — minimal waits and clear communication.
- ✓Comprehensive follow-up — biopsy results in 3–7 days with a clear plan.
- ✓Care close to home — Brisbane, Redland, Moreton Bay and Logan.
Endoscopy & gastroscopy FAQs
Is a gastroscopy uncomfortable?+
Most patients have light sedation and feel little to nothing, remembering very little afterwards. A numbing throat spray may also be used.
What is the cost and do you offer no-gap?+
Gastroscopy is offered as a no-gap service for eligible privately insured patients, and as a fixed-price package for uninsured patients. Full details are on the Colonoscopy Brisbane pricing page, and all costs are confirmed before your procedure.
How is a gastroscopy different from a colonoscopy?+
A gastroscopy examines the upper digestive tract (oesophagus, stomach and duodenum), while a colonoscopy examines the large bowel. Some patients have both at the same visit.
Can I have a gastroscopy without sedation?+
Yes, with throat-numbing spray alone, but most people prefer light sedation for comfort. You can discuss the options with Dr Goutham.
Are there risks?+
Gastroscopy is very safe. Complications are rare and can include minor bleeding after a biopsy, a reaction to sedation, or — extremely uncommonly — a small tear (perforation).
When will I get my results?+
Dr Goutham usually shares the visual findings on the day, with biopsy results typically available within 3–7 days and a clear plan to follow.
Do I need a referral?+
A GP referral is recommended so Medicare rebates apply and your care is coordinated, but our rooms can guide you.
Can a gastroscopy and colonoscopy be done together?+
Yes. If both the upper and lower digestive tracts need examining, the two procedures are often performed under the same sedation in one visit.
Caring for South-East Queensland
Dr Goutham consults and operates across Brisbane, Redland, Moreton Bay and Logan — care close to home, wherever you are in South-East Queensland.
Trusted resources
Last medically reviewed by Dr Goutham Sivasuthan, specialist surgeon — June 2026.
Investigate your symptoms with confidence
Book a gastroscopy with Dr Goutham at a Brisbane or Redland location convenient for you — no-gap and fixed-price options available.