What is an Endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a minimally invasive imaging test which is used to help specialist clinicians examine the interior of a hollow organ or cavity. During the procedure, the inside of the body is examined using an instrument called an endoscope; an endoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube that has a light source and a small camera on the end. Images are relayed onto a television screen and therefore used to identify and diagnose a range of conditions and abnormalities. Endoscopes can be inserted into the body through a natural opening, such as the mouth, the throat, or through the bottom.

Endoscopy Services and Procedures we offer:

• Initial consultation with a gastroenterologist – Patients can book an appointment and discuss any gastro-related symptoms or issues.
• Face-to-face or telephone consultations and follow-ups – patients can get advice about the causes of symptoms, gut health, and lifestyle changes and discuss further management/ treatments.

The three main Endoscopy procedures we perform are:

 Gastroscopies (also known as Oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy or OGD), where the scope is passed down your Oesophagus to view your stomach.

Colonoscopies where the scope is passed through the bottom to view your bowels.

Sigmoidoscopies, where the scope is passed through the bottom to view the lower part of your colon.

All our procedures are undertaken by highly skilled consultants or surgeon-level doctors with support from a team of specialist Nurses and ODPs. 

Why Might You Need an Endoscopy –

•         Difficulty swallowing,
•         Persistent abdominal pain,
•         Chest pain that isn’t caused by heart-related conditions,
•         Persistent nausea and vomiting,
•         Unexplained weight loss,
•         Vomiting blood,
•         Persistent diarrhoea,
•         Blood in your stools.
•         Follow-up investigation of previous ailments

This list is not exhaustive – if you are experiencing symptoms which you would like to discuss with our care team, please do not hesitate to give us a call. We provide both Private GP and Private Gastroenterology consultations where you can discuss your symptoms in depth with a specialist, and together, we can decide the right care for you.

What can be detected by having an Endoscopy?

• GERD
• Tumours and Cancers
• Oesophageal varices
• Inflammation and Ulcers
• Diseases, Intolerances, and allergies e.g., Coeliac Disease

Why Use Beacon for Private Endoscopy?

• Our Endoscopy team is made up exclusively of field-leading healthcare professionals. The Doctors who lead the procedures and undertake prior consultations are specialists of either consultant or surgeon level. Additionally, the team who assist during the procedure are themselves highly trained specialist nurses and ODPs. 
• Gain faster diagnosis by skipping the queues – we aim to provide an appointment within 48 hours at a time convenient for you.  

Do you have to make any preparations before your appointment?

Each procedure offered under our endoscopy service requires its own set of pre-examination preparations.

Prior to your appointment, you will be provided an information booklet by our advisory team which will be directly related to your procedure. You must ensure that you follow all advice given to you as this will allow the most accurate and clear view of the area being examined. You may also be provided with a prescription – please ensure that this is used correctly and in due time before your appointment.

Some examples of pre-examination preparation include:

•         Diet adjustments in the days leading up to your appointment.
•         A fasting period of at least 8 hours prior to your appointment – ensures an empty stomach.
•         Limiting your consumption of liquids
•         The use of prescribed medication, such as laxatives

Pre-examination preparation can vary from patient to patient and can be determined by several factors, such as if you are going to be administered sedation. Therefore, you should only follow your doctor’s specific advice given to you. If you have any questions,

Have you been advised you need to see a gastroenterologist or require an endoscopy? Why not have it with us!

Please fill out a form on the contact page, and we will be in touch as soon as possible to organise your appointment. 

Frequently asked questions can be found below; however, if you have any further enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us by our website, email, or phone.