The procedure

Information for the public

This procedure is done using a general anaesthetic or sedation. An endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end) and surgical instruments are inserted through the mouth and into the stomach. The stomach is inflated using carbon dioxide. A small cut is made in the wall of the stomach and the opening is held open with a balloon. The instruments are passed through into the area of dead tissue. Fluid is drained and the dead tissue is removed. A stent (a short tube) may be left in place in the stomach wall to help further drainage. The procedure usually needs to be repeated, and other treatments may also be needed.