"Horrific Endoscopy Experience"

The support of the majority of the team was exemplary; however the attitude and treatment from the endoscopy surgeon was appalling.

Several times during the pre admittance and pre procedure checks I was clear about my anxiety, alongside my depression and fibromyalgia, and due to this I had elected the sedation option. By the time of the procedure I was understandably very anxious and stressed; also suffering stiffness and pain that stress triggers due to my conditions.

Upon entering the treatment room, the surgeon made it clear that he did not want to use sedation, reluctantly suggesting to use it if the throat spray was not enough. He then sprayed the inside of my mouth with the numbing spray, which I swallowed several times to move the medication down my throat. The surgeon was obviously in a hurry, which was reflected in his approach. As the procedure began and the camera was introduced to my throat, I immediately felt as though I was going to vomit, which obviously made me panic. The surgeon powered on through, barking at me to swallow and when I tried to explain I couldn’t as I was gagging, he simply said of course I could. At no point was I offered sedation. Eventually, with much discomfort, the camera moved down toward my stomach. I was gagging continuously throughout, trying to alert the team, however I as just told not to talk and my hands were pushed back onto my chest. I eventually did vomit. By the end of the procedure I was left weeping uncontrollably, with a sensation of having been punched in the throat and stomach. All I wanted to do was leave, however I was too shocked to move.

Afterwards, the surgeon commented that I appeared upset with him, saying the procedure had gone as well as could be expected. I was so astonished at the brutal treatment I had experienced that all I could do was cry.

I was, and still am, astonished at the lack of respect for my wishes as a patient, and the lack of care shown in in execution. An horrific experience.