Do gastroscope harm gastric mucosa

Gastroscopy may cause damage to the gastric mucosa.

Gastroscopy is invasive. During gastroscopy, the doctor will slowly introduce the lens into the stomach through the mouth and esophagus to observe the surface of the gastric mucosa. During this process, the gastroscope tube may rub or scratch the gastric mucosa, causing some damage. However, the damage is usually mild. In rare cases, patients will experience gastrointestinal bleeding, and the gastric mucosa damage can be repaired in a short time. Therefore, the benefits of gastroscopy are usually far greater than the potential risks, and it is recommended that patients with abnormal digestive tract manifestations may consider gastroscopy with the help of a doctor.