Question:
Having gastroscopy on Jan. 8th, I am terrified!!

My surgeon specializes in gastroscopy and requires all of his RNY patients have one about 8 weeks post-op, just to check for problems or to dilate the stoma if necessary. I know the test is only for about 5 minutes, and you are sedated, but the thought of having a camera and stuff shoved down my throat is totally terrifying. Can anyone tell me about their experiences with the scope and maybe calm my fears?? I am even thinking about cancelling it....    — Kim S. (posted on December 9, 2002)

December 8, 2002
I just had this test a few weeks ago. Like you, I was scared to death. Its not that bad. You will have excellent drugs and I really dont remember the procedure except maybe for bits and peices.. The drugs I got were versed and demerol..It took about 10 minutes from start to finish.. heck I waited more in the waiting room then the procedure. I was in recovery for about an hour for the sedation to wear off.. I had no side effects and was able to eat and drink right afterwards. You will do great!
   — Catherine B

December 8, 2002
This procedure is very simple, although it doesn't sound like it. I had it done twice to dilate 2 strictures a year ago. The gunk that they spray your throat with and gook that they make you gargle and swallow is absolutely the worst part. That stuff is horrible! But it numbs your throat and gastro passage. And that coupled with the excellent medication for sedation will make the procedure a piece of cake. Don't cancel it. You will be glad you went through it and have that peace of mind that your pouch and stoma have healed nicely. I think that is great that your surgeon does this procedure.
   — Cheri M.

December 8, 2002
I had this procedure done twice to dilate me. I was terrified too, but it really wasn't that bad, like the other poster said--the stuff they spray in your throat was the worst part of it. Go ahead with it, you will be glad you did.
   — Michelle S.

December 9, 2002
I've had many, many over the years (starting pre-op). Love that happy juice they give you. Never felt a thing. Rather do that than go to the dentist.
   — vitalady

December 9, 2002
I have had three in the last two years... all I remember is the IV being started, and that is it. Enjoy the drugs ;)
   — kultgirl

December 10, 2002
Hi! I have to agree with the previous poster. This is MUCH better than going to the dentist! I've had it done twice in the past 5-6 weeks for strictures. I was fortunate that I didn't have to gargle anything. Just had to have the IV started and here comes the versed and demerol! The versed has an effect that makes you not remember anything about the procedure! My hubby gets a kick out of going with me cause I ask the same questions over and over after the procedure! You'll do fine....Kim
   — kimmykim1968

December 11, 2002
I had to have this procedure twice. The first time was a piece of cake. I didn't remember a thing but the drugs they gave me had me out until 7pm that night... had procedure done at 11am. Same doc did the 2nd(esophogus closed up) and I thought it'll go fine like the first. Well I woke up during the procedure and started gagging because the tube was down my throat but they just pushed some more meds and I was out like a light. I'd say I was awake for about 5 seconds before the meds kicked back in. And the second time the drugs wore off while I was still in recovery. My guess is that they gave me a lot of meds because I was 500 pounds and wanted to make sure and then 120 pounds later they didn't give me enough. But honestly it was no big deal even when I woke up. It's a fading memory now. Unfortunately RNY isn't. Good luck and God Bless! :)
   — Diana L.