Gastroscopy

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.

A gastroscopy is a procedure to examine your oesophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the first part of your small intestine. It is done to investigate any symptoms or problems.

The procedure is carried out using an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube fitted with a small light and camera. The camera sends detailed images of your upper gastrointestinal system back to a monitor viewed by your consultant or specialist nurse.

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Who is suitable for a gastroscopy?

If you are experiencing persistent abdominal pain, heartburn, indigestion, pain or difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, or low levels of iron, your gastroenterologist may recommend a gastroscopy 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)
  • treat some conditions, such as bleeding

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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 gastroscopy involve? ​

A gastroscopy usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes, although it can take longer if it’s being used to treat a problem.

Your consultant will place the endoscope in the back of your mouth, which will have been numbed with an anaesthetic spray. You will also be offered a painkiller and/or sedation.  They will then ask you to swallow the first part of the tube, before guiding it gently down your oesophagus and into your stomach. The procedure isn’t painful, but it can feel uncomfortable.

Video images sent from the endoscope will enable your doctor to examine your upper gastrointestinal system.

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Why choose Cromwell Hospital?

We have a team of highly experienced consultants, who have developed their skills and knowledge working 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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What can you do to prepare for a gastroscopy?

Your consultant will discuss with you how you can prepare. You will be asked to avoid eating and drinking for a few hours before the procedure.

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What is the recovery period?

A gastroscopy is usually performed without general anaesthetic. A local anaesthetic spray is used to numb the throat and all patients are offered a painkiller and/or sedative.

It can feel uncomfortable, but the procedure only takes a few minutes and most people can go home straight after the examination. You may have a slightly sore throat when the anaesthetic spray wears off. This can last a day or two.

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Clear self-pay options

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 price package for this procedure.

Hospital price package

Treatment from £2,415
Includes:
  • Pre-admission tests
  • Private ensuite room (nights subject to package terms)
  • Theatre procedure
  • Meals, nursing care, and discharge medication

Consultant and other fees will apply.

When enquiring, please quote G4430 (with dilatation) or G4410 (with insertion of stent).

Ready to take the first step?

Call our self-pay team on ‭+44 (0)20 7244 4886‬

Book an appointment today

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