Procedure · OGD
Gastroscopy in Singapore, explained before it happens.
A gastroscopy, also called OGD or upper endoscopy, examines the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum with a thin flexible camera. It can take a biopsy and, where appropriate, treat what it finds during the same sitting. Dr Sulaiman Bin Yusof holds both endoscopy and surgical qualifications, so a scope that needs to become a treatment stays with the same specialist.
FRCSEd (General Surgery)Five clinics in SingaporeDay procedure
In short
OGD
What a gastroscopy is
Oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy. A thin, flexible tube with a camera attached examines the oesophagus, the stomach and the duodenum directly.
One day
Usual wait for an appointment
As a private specialist, Dr Sulaiman typically sees patients within one working day, which matters where symptoms need prompt investigation.
Same visit
Look, sample, and treat
Where an abnormality is identified, tissue samples can be collected and, in appropriate cases, certain interventions performed in the same sitting.
Claimable
MediSave and Integrated Shield
Gastroscopy services are MediSave claimable and covered under major Integrated Shield Plans, with cashless billing arranged where eligible.
His story
Dr Sulaiman Bin Yusof
Senior Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon, seeing patients at five clinics in Singapore.
- MBChB (Sheffield), M.Med (Surgery), FRCSEd (General Surgery)
- Consults in English and Malay
- MOH Fellowship, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne
- Singapore Health Quality Service Star Award 2023
- Dean's Honour Roll for Teaching
A gastroscopy is considered because of a question, not just a symptom list.
Consider consulting a gastroscopy doctor in Singapore for treatment if you are experiencing any of the following.
- Swallowing feels difficultFood sticking, pain on swallowing or a change that persists deserves assessment.
- Reflux keeps returningEspecially when symptoms persist or recur despite an appropriate trial of treatment.
- Upper abdominal painParticularly when it is unexplained or occurs with reduced appetite or weight loss.
- Vomiting or nausea persistsA continuing pattern may warrant examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.
- Anaemia has no clear causeAn upper digestive source may need to be considered alongside other investigations.
- Bleeding is suspectedVomiting blood or passing black, tarry stool can indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
These symptoms do not always indicate serious conditions, but they warrant proper investigation and screening via a gastroscopy in Singapore. Certain symptoms, including unexplained weight loss, anaemia, or blood in stool, may also warrant assessment by a colorectal cancer specialist in Singapore.
Ongoing stomach pain or acid reflux that recurs or fails to respond to treatment may point to underlying conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, known as GERD. A gastroscopy allows direct visualisation of the stomach lining, enabling an accurate assessment where other approaches may not.
Where symptoms suggest a gallbladder cause instead, Dr Sulaiman also performs laparoscopic gallbladder removal, and the consultation is the point at which the two are told apart.
Dysphagia, difficulty swallowing or discomfort when food passes through the throat, can have a range of causes, including oesophageal strictures, inflammation, or structural changes. Combined with upper abdominal pain, these symptoms are among the clearer indications for a gastroscopy screening in Singapore.
Nausea, unintended weight loss, and anaemia without an obvious cause may have their origin in the upper digestive tract. A gastroscopy can help identify whether a structural or mucosal issue is contributing to these symptoms.
Dr Sulaiman investigates and manages stomach ulcers, H. pylori infection, and gastritis through gastroscopy services at his private clinics across Singapore. These conditions are often identified during a gastroscopy, with biopsy samples taken at the same time for laboratory analysis where needed.
A gastroscopy is a direct look at three connected areas.
Gastroscopy, or OGD, oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy, is a procedure that allows a doctor to directly examine the upper digestive tract using a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached. Many patients know it by its everyday names: a stomach scope, a gastric scope, or a tummy scope. In medical writing it is also called an upper endoscopy. All four describe this same test.
A gastroscopy is one of the most reliable tools available for investigating upper gastrointestinal symptoms and, where appropriate, performing targeted interventions at the same time.
What it gives you that a scan cannot
Gastroscopy provides several advantages for diagnosing and treating upper digestive system conditions, including the following.
Direct, real-time visualisation
Gastroscopy provides direct, real-time visualisation of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum that blood tests and imaging cannot replicate.
Findings that a scan can miss
Conditions such as early-stage gastric cancer, gastritis, and peptic ulcers may not appear clearly on a CT scan or X-ray, but are identifiable under direct endoscopic view.
Tissue samples in the same sitting
Where an abnormality is identified, tissue samples can be collected during the same procedure. Biopsies confirm diagnoses, test for H. pylori infection, and rule out malignancy, providing information that visual assessment alone cannot always determine.
Treatment without a second appointment
In appropriate cases, certain interventions, such as the removal of polyps, management of bleeding, or dilation of narrowed sections, can be performed during the gastroscopy itself.
Gastroscopy or colonoscopy, and where the other tests fit
Patients often are unsure whether they need a gastroscopy or a colonoscopy. The difference comes down to where in the digestive tract your symptoms are located. Gastroscopy examines the upper digestive tract and is recommended for stomach pain, reflux, nausea, and difficulty swallowing. Colonoscopy examines the lower digestive tract and is recommended for bowel habit changes, rectal bleeding, and colorectal cancer screening. Other tests such as barium swallow and pH monitoring are used in more specific circumstances.
| Comparison | Gastroscopy, OGD | Colonoscopy | Barium swallow | pH monitoring |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Area examined | Oesophagus, stomach, duodenum | Colon and rectum | Oesophagus and stomach, outline only | Oesophagus |
| Best for | Stomach pain, ulcers, reflux, nausea, dysphagia | Bowel habit changes, rectal bleeding, polyps, colorectal cancer screening | Swallowing disorders, structural narrowing | Chronic acid reflux severity |
| Biopsy capability | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Therapeutic intervention | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Sedation required | Usually | Usually | No | No |
What a gastroscopy costs, and what may offset the bill.
There is no single price for a gastroscopy, because what you are billed for depends on what is found and what has to be done about it. This is what the total is built from, and what pays for it.
What moves the number
Gastroscopy costs in Singapore vary depending on whether the procedure is performed at a public hospital or by a private specialist, and whether any additional interventions such as biopsy or polyp removal are required. Extended sedation is billed on top of the diagnostic scope.
MediSave
Gastroscopy performed as a day surgery procedure is MediSave claimable where it is deemed medically necessary. Our clinic staff will advise on your eligibility and submit claims on your behalf.
Integrated Shield Plans
Most Integrated Shield Plans cover gastroscopy when performed for diagnostic or therapeutic reasons. Purely elective screening gastroscopy may not be covered under all plans in Singapore. Dr Sulaiman's clinic coordinates pre-authorisation with your insurer prior to the procedure where applicable.
Corporate insurance and cashless billing
Corporate policies are accepted, and cashless billing is arranged where you are eligible for it. The clinic confirms whether your own insurer is on panel before the procedure.
Gastroscopy cost in Singapore
- MediSave can cover, up toThe $420 operation limit under Table 1B, plus up to a further $830 a day of day-surgery charges.
- $1,250
- Gastroscopy, his published base price
- $1,090
- Consultation, beforehandBilled separately. It is not part of the procedure claim.
- $87.20
Added only if needed
Amounts include 9% GST. Before GST they are $1,000 for the scope and $80 for the consultation. What you can draw is also limited by your own MediSave balance. Your exact figure is confirmed in writing before the procedure.
Source: CPF Board, using MediSave for hospitalisation (source: CPF Board, using MediSave for hospitalisation, opens in a new tab). Withdrawal limits by TOSP table: MOH, MediSave withdrawal limits (source: Ministry of Health, MediSave withdrawal limits, opens in a new tab).
The itemised breakdown, component by component, and what MediSave covers, is set out in the gastroscopy cost breakdown. Our clinic staff will give you a written estimate for your own case before the appointment.
An empty stomach and a clear medication plan before your stomach scope.
Proper preparation helps ensure a safe procedure and accurate results. Please follow your specialist’s instructions closely in the days before your gastroscopy.
Follow the fasting time exactly
6 to 8 hours, water until 2 hours before
Review medicines before the day
Blood thinners, aspirin, diabetes medicine, supplements
Come dressed for a day procedure
Loose clothing, dentures and lenses removed
Arrange your ride home
Sedation means an adult should travel with you
Fasting requirements
Patients must fast for 6 to 8 hours before a gastroscopy. Clear water is generally permitted up to 2 hours before the appointment. An empty stomach improves visibility and reduces discomfort.
Medication adjustments: diabetes, blood thinners and supplements
Certain medications may need to be adjusted or temporarily paused beforehand. These include blood thinners such as warfarin, aspirin, and NSAIDs, as well as diabetes medications, over-the-counter supplements, and herbal remedies. Please inform Dr Sulaiman of all medications at your pre-procedure consultation so that any adjustments can be safely planned.
What to bring and expect on the day
Wear comfortable, loose clothing on the day of your procedure. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and to remove dentures, glasses, or contact lenses beforehand.
Arranging your journey home
As sedation is administered during a gastroscopy, patients are advised to arrange for a family member or friend to accompany them and assist with travel home following the procedure.
The gastric scope itself, in five stages with a decision at each one.
A gastroscopy involves several steps, and they run in the same order every time.
Sedation
An IV line and a throat spray
The scope goes down
Through the mouth, into the oesophagus
The examination
Watched on a video screen throughout
Samples if needed
Biopsy and H. pylori testing, same session
Recovery
Findings discussed with you the same day
Sedation options
Most patients receive moderate sedation via an IV line alongside a local anaesthetic throat spray. Under moderate sedation, most patients have no memory of the procedure. General anaesthesia is available depending on patient preference or clinical factors.
Insertion of the endoscope
Once sedated, the endoscope is gently guided through the mouth, down the throat, and into the oesophagus. The procedure is viewed in real time on a video screen by the specialist throughout.
Examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum
As the endoscope passes through the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum, the specialist assesses the lining for signs of inflammation, ulceration, polyps, or bleeding. A small amount of air is introduced to gently expand the digestive tract for clearer visualisation.
Biopsy, H. pylori testing and therapeutic interventions
Where clinically indicated, tissue samples may be collected during the procedure. If H. pylori infection is suspected, a rapid urease test or biopsy sample is taken during the same session. In appropriate cases, interventions such as polyp removal, management of bleeding, or dilation of a narrowed oesophagus may also be performed.
Completion, and waking up
The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. Immediate findings are discussed with you by Dr Sulaiman on the same day. You will be monitored in the recovery area before being discharged with a companion.
After the scope, know what is ordinary and what is not.
Following the procedure, you will be monitored in the recovery area until the sedation has worn off, typically within 30 to 60 minutes. A companion will need to be present to accompany you home, as driving is not permitted for at least 24 hours after sedation.
Begin with small sips of water once fully alert, progressing to light, easy-to-digest foods. Rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous activity.
If biopsies were taken, results are typically available within 3 to 5 working days. Dr Sulaiman will contact you directly with findings and discuss any further management required at your follow-up appointment.
The uncommon complications are still part of the decision.
Gastroscopy is a routinely performed endoscopic procedure in Singapore. Serious complications are uncommon. The most frequent side effects, mild sore throat, bloating, and transient abdominal cramping, typically resolve within a day or two.
In rare cases, bleeding following biopsy or polyp removal, or perforation of the oesophagus, stomach, or duodenum, may require further medical attention. Some patients may also experience a reaction to sedation. If you develop severe chest or abdominal pain, fever, or bleeding following the procedure, contact a doctor immediately.
How Dr Sulaiman approaches procedural safety
Dr Sulaiman performs gastroscopy with careful attention to sedation management and procedural technique. Should any complication arise, his dual qualifications in endoscopy and surgery allow for prompt on-site assessment and management where appropriate.
Common questions
The questions that come up before a gastroscopy.
Is a gastroscopy uncomfortable?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure. Moderate sedation is administered beforehand, and most patients have no memory of the gastroscopy itself. Some mild throat soreness or bloating may be felt afterwards, which typically resolves within a day or two.
What does a gastroscopy cost in Singapore?
The Ministry of Health publishes fee benchmarks for the private sector. For a gastroscopy with or without biopsy the surgeon fee benchmark is $650 to $1,100 (source: Ministry of Health, Singapore, fee benchmarks and bill amount information, opens in a new tab) and the anaesthetist fee benchmark is $550 to $800 (source: Ministry of Health, Singapore, fee benchmarks and bill amount information, opens in a new tab). Both exclude GST, and the hospital's own day-surgery charge is billed on top of them. A benchmark is a reference range published for the whole private sector, not a fee cap and not any one surgeon's price. Your own total also depends on whether the procedure is done at a public hospital or by a private specialist and on whether a biopsy or a polyp removal is performed. MediSave and most Integrated Shield Plans may be used to offset costs where the procedure is medically necessary. Dr Sulaiman's published price is set out in the cost section of this page. Source: Ministry of Health fee benchmarks, private sector, with effect from 1 January 2025.
Should I see a gastroenterologist or a general surgeon for a gastroscopy?
For a routine diagnostic gastroscopy, either specialist is appropriate. However, if there is a possibility that surgery for further treatment may be required, consulting a general surgeon in Singapore such as Dr Sulaiman Bin Yusof ensures continuity of care without referral delays.
Can a gastroscopy be done during pregnancy?
Gastroscopy can be performed during pregnancy where there is a clear medical indication, and is generally avoided unless necessary. Where required, the procedure is carefully planned to minimise risk to both mother and baby. Please inform Dr Sulaiman if you are pregnant or suspect you may be.
Can bleeding be treated during the gastroscopy itself?
In many cases, yes. Where active bleeding is identified, interventions such as adrenaline injection or haemostatic clipping may be performed during the same session where clinically appropriate.
What makes a gastroscopy complete?
A gastroscopy is considered complete when a thorough examination of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum has been performed. Your specialist will discuss the visual findings with you on the same day, along with any recommended next steps or follow-up investigations.
Can I see the images from my own gastroscopy?
Yes. Your specialist will review the endoscopic images with you following the procedure. Copies may be made available for your personal records or to share with your GP or other treating doctors where relevant.
When will I get my results?
Immediate visual findings are discussed with you by Dr Sulaiman on the same day as your procedure. If biopsies were taken, laboratory results are typically available within 3 to 5 working days, after which Dr Sulaiman will contact you directly to discuss findings and next steps.
What is normal afterwards, and when should I be worried?
Mild throat discomfort and bloating are normal and usually resolve within a day or two. If you experience severe chest or abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, fever, or vomiting blood, seek medical attention immediately as these may indicate a complication.
How often will I need a repeat gastroscopy?
The frequency depends on the underlying condition being monitored. Some conditions require periodic follow-up gastroscopy, while others may not. Dr Sulaiman will advise on the appropriate interval based on your individual findings and clinical history.
Book a consultation
Symptoms that keep coming back deserve a proper look.
Consult Dr Sulaiman for a gastroscopy, whether you have persistent stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, or have been referred by your GP. Self-referrals are welcome. Gastroscopy services are MediSave and Integrated Shield Plan claimable, and appointments are typically available within one working day. Clinics are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, and Saturday, 9am to 1pm. Sunday and public holiday appointments are available on request.