Gastric Lavage
Emergency Medicine / Toxicology · Toxicology
30–60 min
Duration
Inpatient
Setting
Observation 4–24 hours depending on poison
Recovery
₹3,000+
Cost
📖About Gastric Lavage
Washing out stomach contents through a tube after ingestion of a toxic substance, most effective within 1 hour.
Duration
30–60 min
Setting
Inpatient
Recovery
Observation 4–24 hours depending on poison
Cost Range
₹3,000 – ₹10,000
Anaesthesia
None or Sedation
Success Rate
Variable
Hospital Admission Required
This procedure requires hospital admission. Plan for time off work and arrange support for your recovery period. Duration of stay depends on your response and complexity.
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📋Indications — Who Needs This Procedure?
- 1Unexplained symptoms requiring diagnostic clarification or confirmation
- 2Monitoring of a known condition to assess treatment response or disease progression
- 3Pre-operative workup to confirm fitness or guide surgical planning
- 4Screening in high-risk individuals as per clinical guidelines
- 5Therapeutic intervention where non-invasive or conservative options have been inadequate
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🔬How the Procedure is Performed
- 1Check-in and pre-procedure assessment — vitals, allergy review, consent signing
- 2Administration of none or sedation to ensure comfort throughout
- 3Execution of the core procedure: washing out stomach contents through a tube after ingestion of a toxic substance, most effective within 1 hour.
- 4Real-time monitoring of vital signs and patient response throughout
- 5Completion and immediate post-procedure observation in the recovery area
- 6Results or imaging reviewed by the specialist; findings communicated to the patient
✅Benefits
- 1Accurate diagnosis enabling targeted and timely treatment
- 2Minimally invasive with significantly lower risk compared to open surgery
- 3Most procedures are outpatient — no overnight hospital stay required
- 4Documented success rate of Variable when performed at accredited facilities
- 5Rapid turnaround — results or therapeutic effect within Observation 4–24 hours depending on poison
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
📝Pre-Procedure Preparation
- 1Protect airway
- 2IV access
- 3activated charcoal may be given after
⚠️Risks & Considerations
- 1Adverse reaction to none or sedation — rare but possible
- 2Temporary soreness, bruising, or swelling at the procedure site
- 3Small risk of infection if the procedure involves any breach of the skin or mucosa
- 4Incomplete result requiring a repeat procedure or alternative investigation
- 5Rare serious complications — discussed in detail during informed consent
🩹Recovery & Aftercare
- 1Rest for the remainder of the day; light activity may resume the following day
- 2Follow all post-procedure dietary or activity restrictions provided by your care team
- 3Take any prescribed medications as directed; do not self-medicate
- 4Attend follow-up appointments to review results and discuss next steps
- 5Contact your specialist immediately if you experience severe pain, fever, or unusual symptoms
Procedure Journey — What to Expect
Before the Procedure
Fasting, skin prep, consent signing, IV access setup. Anaesthesia or sedation administered if required.
During the Procedure
The Gastric Lavage is performed. Vital signs monitored continuously. Duration typically Observation 4–24 hours depending on poison from start to finish.
Immediate Recovery
Monitored in recovery bay until stable. Mild sedation wears off. Results may be communicated the same day.
Follow-up & Results
Review with your specialist within 1–2 weeks. Next steps discussed based on findings. Additional procedures may be recommended.
Gastric Lavage Cost in India (2024–25)
| Component | Govt / Budget | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist / Radiologist Fee | ₹500 – ₹2,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Facility / Procedure Room | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Anaesthesia / Sedation | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Contrast / Consumables | ₹500 – ₹2,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Follow-up Consultation | ₹300 – ₹800 | ₹800 – ₹2,500 |
* Estimates for India 2024–25. CGHS / Ayushman Bharat may cover eligible procedures. Costs vary by city, centre, and complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gastric Lavage?+
Washing out stomach contents through a tube after ingestion of a toxic substance, most effective within 1 hour.
Who needs Gastric Lavage?+
Gastric Lavage is recommended for patients with specific symptoms, abnormal test results, or as part of a planned treatment pathway. Your Emergency Medicine / Toxicology specialist will evaluate your suitability.
What type of anaesthesia is used?+
Gastric Lavage is typically performed with None or Sedation. The anaesthesia team will review your health history and allergies before the procedure.
How long does the procedure take?+
The typical duration is noted in the quick stats above. This may vary depending on complexity and individual patient factors.
What are the risks of Gastric Lavage?+
Risks include minor discomfort, bruising, rare infection, and in some cases incomplete results requiring repeat testing. Serious complications are uncommon but are discussed at consent.
What is the success rate of Gastric Lavage?+
Gastric Lavage has a documented success rate of Variable at accredited centres. Individual outcomes depend on the underlying condition, patient health, and care team expertise.
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified specialist before deciding on any procedure. In emergencies, call 112.