Diagnostic gastroscopy and colonoscopy with biopsy

A gastroscopy is a procedure to examine your oesophagus (food pipe), stomach and the first part of your small intestine to investigate any symptoms or problems. It is sometimes done alongside a colonoscopy, a procedure to examine your large intestine (colon) and rectum. The procedures are carried out with types of endoscope, a thin, flexible tube fitted with a small light and camera. Together they provide your consultant with detailed images of both your upper and lower gastrointestinal system.   

Who is suitable for a diagnostic gastroscopy and colonoscopy?

If you are experiencing symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, indigestion, difficulty swallowing, low levels of iron, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss or tiredness, your consultant may recommend a diagnostic gastroscopy and colonoscopy to:    

  • Investigate these symptoms and problems 
  • Diagnose conditions such as coeliac disease
  • Screen for cancer   
  • Check for any growths or polyps 
  • Take small samples of tissue (biopsies). 

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Contact our Self-Pay team

We offer a range of self-pay package options, including flexible Hospital Packages and all-inclusive Fixed Price Packages.

 

Request an appointment >

 

+44 (0)20 7244 4886

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What does a diagnostic gastroscopy and colonoscopy involve?

A gastroscopy usually takes about 5-10 minutes, although it can take longer if it’s being used to treat a problem. Your consultant or specialist nurse will place the endoscope in the back of your mouth, which will have been numbed with an anaesthetic spray. They will then ask you to swallow the first part of the tube, before guiding it gently down your oesophagus and into your stomach. Video images sent from the endoscope will enable your doctor to examine your upper gastrointestinal system.   

A colonoscopy usually takes about 30-45 minutes. Your consultant or specialist nurse will insert a colonoscope into your back passage. They may then inflate your abdomen slightly with carbon dioxide gas to get a clearer view of your large bowel. Video images sent from the colonoscope will enable your doctor to examine your colon and rectum. If they find any small growths or polyps, they will remove them or take a small sample of tissue (biopsy), using a small surgical tool through the colonoscope.   

The procedures aren’t painful, but can feel uncomfortable. You will be offered a painkiller or sedation.  

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What can you do to prepare?

Your consultant will discuss with you how you can prepare. You may be asked to follow a special low fibre diet in the days before the procedure. You will also be asked to take a laxative to clear your bowels. This can help to improve the quality and detail of the pictures collected by the colonoscope’s camera. 

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What is the recovery period?

A gastroscopy and colonoscopy are usually performed without anaesthetic. Most people can go home an hour or two after the examination. You might have some stomach pains or bloating for a few hours after the procedure, and you may experience some rectal bleeding. You may also have a slightly sore throat when the anaesthetic throat spray wears off. This can last a day or two.  

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Self-pay package

As well as working with all major insurance companies, we also welcome patients who wish to pay for themselves.

Below is an outline of our self-pay hospital package which includes tests, hospital stay and procedure.

Please note: it does not include consultant fees, which may vary.   

Hospital package from £2,380 (day case) 

Indicative consultant fees from £425 

When enquiring about this package, please quote G8082.

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  • Histology tests 
  • Recovery time in the endoscopy suite  
  • Pre procedure bowel preparation if required
  • Nursing 
  • Theatre procedure and anaesthetics 
  • Consultant consultation fee  
  • Post-op and discharge medication 
  • Neurophysiology, dietician, physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy 
  • Non-standard diagnostic and histology tests 
  • Any additional costs not specified in the package inclusions  

Our consultants

See all the consultants at Cromwell Hospital.

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Why choose Cromwell Hospital?

We have a team of highly experienced consultants, who have developed their skills and knowledge working on varied caseloads at leading NHS teaching hospitals in London. 

Our consultants work in a multidisciplinary team, which includes specialist nurses, radiographers, and diagnostic experts. Working together, they will tailor your care to your needs. 

Our diagnostic service uses the latest technology and an on-site laboratory for speedy test results. 

We move fast. If you get in touch, we can offer a consultation to assess your case the next day. 

We also offer a rapid route through to surgery, so you can be seen, cared for and recover in the fastest time possible.

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Book an appointment today

Please note - regrettably we are unable to answer specific medical questions or offer medical advice via email or telephone.