Also called an upper endoscopy or EGD (EsophagoGastroDuodenoscopy), gastroscopy is commonly performed to investigate symptoms like dysphagia, heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea and bleeding. It enables direct visualization and tissue sampling of abnormal growths or inflammation to inform accurate diagnosis and management.

While endoscopy encompasses procedures examining diverse sites like the joints, bladder or respiratory system, gastroscopy focuses exclusively on the upper gastrointestinal tract. So while all gastroscopies are endoscopic procedures, not all endoscopies are gastroscopies.

In summary, gastroscopy is an upper endoscopy, allowing doctors to directly see portions of the upper digestive system using an endoscope inserted through the mouth. It has a more specific remit than a general endoscopic inspection. Understanding this distinction between these common procedures can help patients better comprehend their purpose and what to expect.