Endoscopy

Rapid access to scope procedures with no lengthy waiting time
Only 7 days from referral to procedure for red flag cases
Helps identify inflammation, ulcers, and tumours

Gastro Clinic

Kingsbridge Diagnostic & Treatment Centre has a team of locally based Consultant Gastroenterologists and GI Surgeons who can deliver an examination, diagnosis and ultimately treatment of conditions in the oesophagus, stomach, large and small intestines (bowel).

7 Day Turnaround For Red Flag Referrals

At Kingsbridge Diagnostic & Treatment Centre we aim to see patients as quickly as possible, so we have introduced a 7 day referral pathway for red flag cases which will in time will be the standard process for all patients who require scope diagnostics and treatment.

Referrals to our 7 day pathway can be made by submitting our

7 Day Scope Referral Form

Alternatively, patients can self-refer via the following methods:

Text BOOK ENDO to 66777
Email appointments@kingsbridgehealthcaregroup.com

Self-Referral Form

On a waiting list for a scope investigation? Access endoscopy procedures within 7 days at Kingsbridge

Listen to Carol tell of her experience with Kingsbridge Diagnostic & Treatment Centre when she needed an urgent scope procedure.

View Carol's Story

What is an endoscopy procedure?

An endoscopy is a procedure which involves inserting an endoscope (a thin, long, flexible tube with camera) into the body through the mouth or rectum to allow visual examination of the gastrointestinal tract. It can be used to diagnose, monitor, and treat various medical conditions

Why might you need an endoscopy?

Digestive Issues: Endoscopy can help diagnose and assess conditions affecting the digestive tract, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, and colorectal polyps or cancer.
Unexplained Pain or Bleeding: If you're experiencing unexplained abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits, an endoscopy can help identify the underlying cause.

Difficulty Swallowing: If you have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), an endoscopy can help evaluate the esophagus and identify any structural issues or abnormalities.

Persistent Heartburn: Chronic heartburn or acid reflux might warrant an endoscopy to check for damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid.

Screening for Cancer: Certain types of endoscopy, like colonoscopy and upper endoscopy, are used for cancer screening. Colonoscopy can detect colorectal cancer, while upper endoscopy can identify early signs of esophageal, stomach, or duodenal cancers.

Unexplained Weight Loss: If you're experiencing significant and unexplained weight loss, an endoscopy can help investigate potential causes in the gastrointestinal tract.

Inflammatory Conditions: Endoscopy can be used to assess and monitor conditions like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory disorders.

Diagnostic Confirmation: When other imaging tests, such as X-rays or ultrasounds, provide inconclusive results, an endoscopy can provide direct visualization and more accurate diagnosis.

Removal of Polyps or Tumors: During an endoscopy, tools can be passed through the endoscope to remove polyps, tumors, or foreign objects, avoiding the need for open surgery.

Control Bleeding: Endoscopy can be used to identify and stop bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract by using techniques like cauterization, clipping, or injection of medications.

What are symptoms that may require an endoscopy investigation?

Patients may be referred for an endoscopy to investigate the following symptoms:

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Persistent abdominal pain
Chest pain not caused by heart-related conditions
Persistent nausea and vomiting
Unexplained weight loss
Vomiting blood
Persistent diarrhoea
Blood in your stools

Scopes & Hope! Navigating Red Flag GI Symptoms with Mr McKay, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon

Mr Damian McKay, Consultant General & Colorectal Surgeon offers advice on the main signs and symptoms of lower GI and Colorectal Cancer.

View Podcast

Types of Endoscopy Investigations

Oesophageal-Gastric-Duodenal (OGD) Endoscopy

Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy (OGD) is also commonly known as a Gastroscopy, or Endoscopy and can be used to diagnose and treat problems affecting your upper intestinal tract including the oesophagus (gullet), stomach and duodenum (the first section of the small intestine).

An OGD examination is where a flexible and small scope (Gastroscope) is used to investigate the Oesophagus (gullet), stomach and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). It is used to visualise the gut and take samples (biopsies) for analysis where indicated.

There are many reasons for this investigation but they include:

Abdominal pain
Nausea and Vomiting - particularly if your vomit is bloody or looks like coffee grounds.
Signs of blood loss such as anaemia, passing black motions, or vomiting blood
Chest pain.
Problems breathing.
Problems swallowing or throat pain
Unexplained Weight Loss

Common conditions that can be detected by an endoscopy procedure include:

Oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus - usually due to Hiatal Hernia and caused by acid reflux)
Cancer of the stomach or oesophagus.
Non-cancerous stricture (narrowing) of the oesophagus
Hiatal Hernia
Gastritis - inflammation of the inner lining of the Stomach
Gastric ulcers
Duodenitis (inflammation of the duodenum)
Duodenal Ulcer
Damage caused by gastro-oesophageal acid reflux disease (GORD)
Non-ulcer dyspepsia (indigestion/pain not caused by an ulcer)

During the investigation, some tissue samples (biopsies) from the lining of your upper digestive tract may need to be taken for further testing. This is painless and will not cause discomfort.

Colonoscopy Examination

A Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy involves passing the endoscope through the anus into the intestine. This allows the doctor to look directly at the lining of the large intestine (the colon) and take a biopsy for later analysis if necessary. It is recommended for:

Alterations in bowel habit
Blood in the stool
Unexplained anaemia (low blood count)
A screening tool for colon cancer

Depending on what part of your body is being examined, you may be asked to avoid eating and drinking for at least 6 hours prior to the examination.

If you're having a colonoscopy to examine the large intestine or a sigmoidoscopy to examine the rectum and lower part of the bowel you may be given a laxative to help clear stools from your bowels.

Endoscopy Examination

An endoscopy is a safe and painless procedure and the risk of complications is low.

Endoscopy through the mouth typically involves using local anaesthetic spray to the throat to numb the throat to make it easier to pass the tube. Some patients find that mild sedation can also be useful to help relax

Depending on what investigation is being carried out an endoscopy usually takes around 15-60 minutes. An endoscopy is usually done as a day procedure so you will likely not need to stay in hospital.

If the gullet (oesophagus), stomach or first part of the small intestine needs to be examined, it's known as a gastroscopy. Where the bowel needs to be examined, it's known as a colonoscopy.

Typical Questions People Ask About Endoscopy

What is the procedure for an endoscopy?

Upper endoscopy is a procedure that enables the examiner (usually a gastroenterologist) to examine the oesophagus (swallowing tube), stomach, and duodenum (first portion of small bowel) using a thin, flexible tube called the upper endoscope through which the lining of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum can be viewed using a TV monitor.

What is a colonoscopy and endoscopy?

There are two basic types of endoscopy: Upper endoscopy (gastroscopy) – The oesophagus, stomach, and small intestines can be viewed by a thin flexible tube inserted through the mouth. Colonoscopy – The lining of the large intestine, colon and rectum can be viewed by a flexible tube inserted through the rectum.

What does an endoscopy test for?

Endoscopy can help identify inflammation, ulcers, and tumours. Upper endoscopy is more accurate than X-rays for detecting abnormal growths such as cancer and for examining the inside of the upper digestive system. Any abnormalities can also be treated through the endoscope.

Why would you get an endoscopy?

Endoscopy may be used to treat a digestive tract problem. An endoscope can not only diagnose an issue, but devices can be passed through the endoscope that can help treat the condition.

What symptoms would lead to an Upper GI endoscopy?

Upper GI endoscopy can help find the cause of unexplained symptoms, such as persistent heartburn, bleeding, nausea and vomiting, pain, problems swallowing, unexplained weight loss. Upper GI endoscopy can also find the cause of abnormal lab tests, such as anemia and nutritional deficiencies.

What conditions can be identified by an endoscopy examination?

Upper GI endoscopy can identify many different diseases including anemia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, ulcers, cancer, inflammation or swelling, precancerous abnormalities, celiac disease

What is an upper GI endoscopy?

An upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to look at the inside lining of the oesophagus, the stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). A thin, flexible viewing tool called an endoscope (scope) is used.

What is the preparation for an endoscopy?

Typically, a fasting period is required before the endoscopy. You will need to stop drinking and eating four to eight hours before the examination to ensure your stomach is empty for the procedure. Certain medications may also be required to be stopped before the endoscopy procedure.

Can you eat before a gastroscopy and endoscopy?

Your doctor will give you specific instructions to prepare for your endoscopy. An upper endoscopy requires that you have an empty stomach before the procedure. Do not eat or drink anything for at least six hours before the procedure, or as directed by your doctor or nurse.

What can you eat after a gastroscopy and endoscopy?

Your doctor will advise on the post-procedure diet. You can usually eat and drink 1 hour after the gastroscopy procedure is finished. Initially it is recommended to start with water and cool liquids. Then soft foods like soup and eggs can be added. Regular eating habits can be resumed as you feel better.

What happens when you have a camera down your throat?

An endoscopy is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is used to look inside the oesophagus (gullet), stomach and first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It's also sometimes referred to as an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The endoscope has a light and a camera at one end. The camera sends images of the inside of your oesophagus, stomach and duodenum that can be viewed on a monitor by the investigations team.

Is an endoscopy painful?

An endoscopy is a painless procedure, with most people only experiencing some mild discomfort. The procedure is usually carried out while you're conscious. You may be given a local anaesthetic to numb a specific area of the body for ease of insertion of the scope

Are there any risks in an Endoscopy Examination?

An endoscopy is a very safe procedure. Rare complications include: Bleeding. Your risk of bleeding complications after an endoscopy is increased if the procedure involves removing a piece of tissue for testing (biopsy) or treating a digestive system problem.

How long does it take to get a gastroscopy?

An upper endoscopy takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes. A colonoscopy takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

How long does it take to recover from an endoscopy?

Patients typically remain in the recovery area for 30 to 40 minutes after their procedure.

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"I am extremely happy with the treatment, and with the standard of care I have received. There is no doubt as to whether this treatment is highly effective. I have had several cosmetic surgeries (although not on my face) but can say in comparing the results of the Spring Thread procedure with other less invasive treatments, the results are more in keeping with the surgical procedures I have had." Spring Thread Patient Review, Cosmetech at Kingsbridge Patient

"I had surgery here at the weekend and I can't recommend this place highly enough. They took great care of me and kept me at ease throughout my stay. The staff were brilliant, really friendly and chatted away and the food was top class. This hospital was better than any hotel I wonder could I book a weekend away in it when I fully recover?" Mr McGinnity, Kingsbridge Patient

"EXCELLENT - Had surgery today under the very caring Dr Stewart and her team. I cannot thank her enough for all she’s done for me over the past few months. Everything was explained to me in detail and all my care was considerate, professional and compassionate. Everyone I’ve met today has been beyond kind from Will the Anaesthetist, the Nurses and theatre staff, the catering staff - there has been no exception. Thank you all for taking care of me so well today - look forward to getting home tomorrow x" Mrs McAleavey, Kingsbridge Patient

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"As hospitals go this one is pretty amazing! Had surgery with Mr Molloy at the end of October and have another one the end of this month. Mr Molloy is a gentleman who puts you at ease right away and ensured my last procedure went smoothly! From start to finish all the hospital staff go above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable and stress free as possible. The facilities are brilliant with the rooms spacious and modern to recover in. Keep up the good work!" Ms Roulston, Kingsbridge Patient

"My mother had a total hip replacement surgery. We stayed for three days and were discharged today. Honestly, words can't describe the quality of the job and care they do. The doctors Roger Wilson, Sherman, David, the nurses Susan, Sinead, Siobhan, Andrea, the catering staff who provided customised halal food, and the remaining team whose names I cannot remember were the kindest, nicest, politest, the most caring, professional and pleasant people we have ever come across in healthcare environment. These are true gems and real stars. We are indebted to their treatment.
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"Currently just back from recovery on the ward. I have just had ACL reconstructive surgery on my left knee. What can I say? This place is brilliant. I arrived at 8.35am, taken to the ward at 8.45am (my admission time was 9am). Tended to by a lovely Nurse. Dr Roger Wilson spoke to me around 9.45am, in Theatre for 10am, recovery for 11.10am and now currently back on ward. These guys are awesome. From the consultant to anaesthetist to nurses to cater assistants. Absolutely brilliant. Thank you so much. I am so grateful to everyone at Kingsbridge for the service." Mr McNicholl, Kingsbridge Patient

"I just had a total hip replacement done by Mr Molloy. He made me feel totally at ease (a real gentleman). I had 1st class treatment and as for the staff they couldn’t do enough for me. My experience was excellent from the time I arrived until the day I left for home. Thanks a million to all involved." Miss Bennett, Kingsbridge Patient

"Excellent experience with Kingsbridge Hospital, my dad had a day procedure here recently and not only did he receive fantastic care, but so did myself and my mum. The staff were so understanding and without saying anything could see I was looking after my mum also who has dementia, they went above and beyond to make the time spent waiting on my Dad as pleasant and stress free as possible, I will never forget the extra mile they went to, to support us. Many thanks x" Ms Forde, Kingsbridge Patient

"I have just been discharged from Kingsbridge today after surgery and was in for 3 days. From start to finish my experience was excellent. From catering staff up to senior nurses and doctors they were all fantastic and made my stay a positive experience. As a nurse myself I probably have high expectations of care and I certainly experienced the best of care in Kingsbridge who have staff they should be proud off. Great teamwork." Ms Armstrong, Kingsbridge Patient

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"The service and staff are first class. Had my cataract operation done on the 20th of January and I would like to thank all the staff of this fantastic hospital for giving me my life back. You are all a credit to your profession. Excellent service and I would highly recommend you. Once again thank you so much and I am truly grateful to you all." Mr Doolan, Kingsbridge Patient

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Yesterday's was a neck disc replacement operation. I would highly recommend this hospital like a hotel manner. Thanks again guys." Mr Phillips, Kingsbridge Patient

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"Can’t praise Kingsbridge Private Hospital enough!! I had an operation a couple of weeks ago and I was so well looked after. My surgeon Mr Rashid was fantastic, and the nursing staff was also fabulous. I found they communicated very well to each other, so everyone knew when my meds were due, my allergies etc. They were so kind, so lovely, constantly checked to see how I was i.e. my temperature etc. The food was fabulous and the catering staff very helpful having had an operation were very happy to accommodate ... Thank you to all!" Ms Cheong, Kingsbridge Patient

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"I was in your facility yesterday for a day procedure (operation on my left arm). I wanted to write and express how impressed I was with the facilities and more importantly the staff on the Ward.

Everyone was excellent, and I mean excellent, i don't normally write congratulatory e-mails so this is high praise in my view. The Senior nurse was excellent, as was the Theatre nurse and the anaesthetist. Even the assistants that helped with catering and other duties. All came together to form a great impression of the establishment." Jason Carpal Tunnel Surgery, Kingsbridge Patient

"Very well satisfied with everyone at my appointment - firstly with reception who were very friendly and helpful, secondly with Mr Cusick who took his time to explain everything to me and finally One2One with Rose who organised the dates for my pre op and operation. I would highly recommend Kingsbridge Private Hospital." Patient Review, Orthopaedic Clinic

"When I attended Kingsbridge Private Hospital on the 14th May for a knee replacement the care I got was fantastic from entering the door until I was discharged on the 16th May. The surgeon Mr Laurence Cusick and his team was absolutely fantastic, the nurses and the rest of the team you couldn’t ask for better and the food was very good" Paitent Review , Knee Replacement Clinic

"My first knee replacement was October 2023, and this was done the manual way. The pre and post op was fantastic for both! There was almost no pain in my hip or rest of my body after the second surgery which was a huge difference compared to my first knee. I was able to continue my physio as normal and I noticed I had more movement a lot sooner with my second knee, the robotic assisted. I could not thank the staff enough and Mr McCaffrey for how kind and understanding, attentive they were. From the beginning, I felt heard, and understood. The nurses, the caterers, the physios, the doctors, pharmacists, it is top class care! Overall, in summary, I would highly recommend going for robotic assisted. It’s still a serious surgery, so pain is to be expected and recovery is not going to be rosy, but it is worth it. The relief I have now in both knees, walking without that bone-on-bone pain, I am grateful. And the robotic assisted was a noticeably less painful, faster recovery. " Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement , Kingsbridge Hospital North West Patient