Gastroscopy, also known as FGDS (fibrogastroduodenoscopy), is an endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and initial sections of the intestine, which can be performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. In the former case, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis: the doctor examines and describes the digestive organs for damage, ulcers, polyps, and tumors.
During this examination, samples may be taken for laboratory histological examination, and stomach contents may also be collected to confirm the diagnosis.