Oesophago Gastro Duodenoscope
OGD, short for Oesophago Gastro Duodenoscope, is a specialised examination that allows a colorectal doctor to look inside your oesophagus, stomach and duodenum using an endoscope. An endoscope is a long, thin and flexible tube attached with a high-definition video camera on one end and controls on the other end.
OGD FAQs
When does one need to undergo OGD?
An OGD is usually performed to evaluate symptoms of gastric bloating, acid reflux (heartburns), gastric pain or anemia. An OGD can determine if there are ulcers, gastritis or cancer in the stomach. Treatment may be performed through the endoscope during the examination. For example, heat treatment can be applied to a bleeding ulcer to stop the bleeding.
What is the OGD procedure like?
OGD is usually an outpatient procedure. It is performed on an empty stomach after an overnight fast, (at least six hours without food and water). The OGD is done with you lying on your left side. An anesthetic spray will be applied to the back of your throat to numb the area. In addition, an injection of a mild sedative will be given to put you into a light sleep and your pulse and oxygen level will be monitored with a finger-probe throughout the procedure.
The endoscope is then gently introduced. The entire process takes about 5 to 10 minutes. A biopsy of the tissue samples is also usually taken to determine the presence of the Helicobacter pylori bacteria in the stomach, which may increase the risk of cancer and ulcer formation.
What are some possible complications?
OGD is considered a very safe procedure, with less than 1 complication occurrence in 10 000 cases (0.01%). This includes bleeding and perforation, a puncture of the lining in the upper digestive tract, which may require surgical repair.
What can I expect after an OGD?
After OGD is completed, you will be brought to the recovery area for monitoring and observation. You should not drive or operate machinery on the same day. For this reason, someone else should preferably be available to accompany you home. An appointment will be scheduled to review the findings of the colonoscopy, answer any questions you may have and, if needed, discuss future treatment.
What are some alternative options?
An alternative to OGD is a barium enema. This is an x-ray investigation involving drinking a white liquid (barium), afterwhich X-ray pictures are obtained. However, it is not possible to obtain a biopsy or perform treatment to the lining during barium enema. For this reason, an OGD is usually the preferred method of choice for evaluation of gastric disorders.
FRCSEd, FAMS
With more than two decades of experience managing colorectal conditions, our colorectal surgeon Dr Kam Ming Hian is a well-known figure in the medical arena. As the former Director of Robotics & Minimally Invasive Surgery in the Department of Colorectal Surgery, SGH, Dr Kam has successfully treated many patients, and received multiple awards for service excellence during his career.
He is well-published in international journals and has also been invited to speak at various conferences. To date, colorectal surgeon, Dr Kam has performed thousands of gastroscopy and colonoscopy procedures, and conducted regular endoscopy training courses for the next generation of medical students.
![]()
20 Years of Colorectal Experience
![]()
Skilled in Minimally Invasive & Laparoscopic Techniques
![]()
Individualised & Cost Effective Treatment for Every Patient
![]()
Medisave and Insurance-Covered Treatment and Procedures
We are proud to provide patients with highly personalised and affordable colorectal treatments in Singapore. At Kam Colorectal Centre, we’ve got your colorectal health covered.
Call +65 6443 1005 or fill in the form below to book a detailed consultation with us.