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Confusion about gastroscopy appointment

Posted , 3 users are following.

ripply
ripply

After a hospital admission, I was referred for a gastroscopy. I explained that I'd already been sent for one about a year previously which failed as the maximum sedation they could give me had absolutely no effect and the doctor wouldn't do it as he believed I was too scared. I was told to speak to my GP and she wrote a letter to my consultant explaining that I would need a general anaesthetic. But a few days later, the letter arrived at MY house so I rang the GP again and the receptionist said they would try to get it sent to the consultant again. Today, I received an admission offer letter for next week but it said nothing about a general anaesthetic, only the throat spray/i.v. sedation. I rang my GP in a panic and turns out, the letter was never sent to the consultant. They advised I ring the consultants secretary to explain I need a general anaesthetic so I did and was told they didn't know what to do. I was transferred to an outpatients nurse, then another secretary, then the booking office and so on. I have asked all of them if I should cancel this appointment as they obviously won't be able to organise a general anaesthetic on the day. All of them have said not to cancel but couldn't tell me what I should do. Could anyone help me with this?

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • trex
    trex

    Posted

    If you dont get the general anaesthetic ordered in time why dont you just take someone with you and the sedation and just relax there is actually nothing to be scared or panicked about if you do this, just some discomfort thats all
  • Guest
    Guest

    Posted

    Do go for that appointment and do as trex says. When you get to see the gastroenterologist explain the trouble you have had getting your GP and everyone else to deal with your request. If you get no satisfaction from this make a complaint afterwards in writing.

    The procedure does not hurt. It does feel strange and uncomfortable but you need to know what is wrong and it is possible to watch progress on a screen if youe wish. I always watch as I like to learn about my body but that is a personal matter. The more you relax the easier it will be as your muscles will not then constrict.

  • ripply
    ripply

    Posted

    I'm waiting for the consultants secretary to phone me back but I doubt they'll be able to arrange a general anaesthetic for that time. I'm just worried because I know I'll be wasting their time trying to do it again with just sedation. I was gagging as soon as the mouth guard was put in the last time. The doctor called it off immediately and said it wouldn't be possible to do it. I feel it would be best to cancel it so that someone else can use the appointment as I know how long the waiting list is but they're all saying to wait and see what the consultant says.
  • Guest
    Guest

    Posted

    Let's hope that secretary get's back to you soon; if not ring her again and tell her you do not want to waste appointment time.
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