Colonoscopy in Hendon

Private colonoscopy at Hendon Hospital in North London

At Hendon Hospital, we offer fast access to private colonoscopy procedures carried out by experienced consultant gastroenterologists and endoscopists. A colonoscopy is one of the most effective ways to diagnose and monitor bowel conditions including inflammation, polyps and early signs of bowel cancer. 

We understand that the idea of having a colonoscopy can make some patients feel anxious. That’s why our specialist team ensures every step of the process – from preparation to recovery – is handled with care, comfort and respect. We use modern endoscopy technology and sedation options to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

Our private hospital in Hendon offers rapid access to appointments and results, meaning you won’t have to wait long for reassurance or treatment. Patients from across North London, including Edgware, Barnet, Golders Green and Finchley, visit us for our consultant-led care and advanced diagnostic facilities. 

‘The staff at Hendon Hospital were exceptional. My consultant explained everything clearly, and the procedure was much easier than I expected.’ 
— Patient review, Hendon Hospital 

What is a colonoscopy? 

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inside of your large bowel (colon) and rectum. It is performed using a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope, which has a small camera and light at the end. This device transmits images to a monitor, allowing your consultant to view the lining of your bowel in real time. 

Colonoscopy is used to investigate symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bleeding, or unexplained weight loss. It can also help diagnose conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and bowel cancer. 

During the procedure, if your consultant identifies abnormalities, they might take small samples (biopsies) of tissue to be sent for laboratory analysis, or if polyps are identified, these can be removed. Polyps are small growths on the bowel wall that can sometimes develop into cancer over time. The ability to both diagnose and treat within a single procedure makes colonoscopy one of the most valuable tools in gastrointestinal medicine. 

At Hendon Hospital, all colonoscopy procedures are performed by consultant gastroenterologists or colorectal surgeons, supported by trained endoscopy nurses and anaesthetists. This ensures every patient receives safe, specialist-led care. 

How long does a colonoscopy take?

A colonoscopy typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, although you should expect to spend around two hours in hospital, which covers preparation, the procedure, and recovery afterwards. 

Before your colonoscopy, you will be given clear instructions about preparing your bowel. This usually involves a special diet for a day or two and taking a prescribed laxative to clear the bowel. Having an empty bowel allows your consultant to see the lining clearly and obtain accurate results. 

When you arrive for your appointment, you’ll meet your consultant and nursing team, who will explain the procedure and answer any questions. Sedation or pain relief will be offered to help you relax. 

After the procedure, you’ll rest in a recovery area until the effects of sedation wear off. Most people are ready to go home within an hour or two and can return to normal activities the next day. If polyps are removed or biopsies taken, your consultant will advise if you need to modify your activity for a short time. 

What sedation is used for a colonoscopy?

At Hendon Hospital, we prioritise your comfort throughout your colonoscopy. Most patients choose to have conscious sedation, which helps you feel relaxed and drowsy but still awake enough to respond to your consultant. The sedative is administered intravenously and works quickly to ease any discomfort or anxiety. 

Some patients prefer to have local anaesthetic alone, particularly if they want to avoid the drowsiness that follows sedation. Others may request a deeper level of sedation, depending on the complexity of the procedure and personal preference. 

Your consultant will discuss all available options with you beforehand, explaining the benefits and recovery process for each. Because our procedures are carried out in a fully equipped private hospital, you can rest assured that sedation is managed safely by qualified medical staff at all times. 

After sedation, you’ll need a friend or family member to accompany you home, as you should not drive or operate machinery for at least 24 hours. 

How much does a colonoscopy cost at Hendon Hospital? 

The cost of a private colonoscopy at Hendon Hospital varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether biopsies or polyp removals are required. 

Patients with private medical insurance are usually covered for diagnostic colonoscopy if referred by a GP or consultant. Our patient advisors can assist with pre-authorisation and liaise directly with your insurer. 

For self-pay patients, we offer transparent pricing with fixed-cost packages wherever possible. This means you’ll know the total cost in advance, with no hidden charges or unexpected extras. 

Our team can also arrange a consultation with a gastroenterologist before your procedure if you have symptoms or risk factors that need assessment prior to referral for colonoscopy. 

Is a colonoscopy painful?

Most patients find a colonoscopy far more comfortable than they expect. The procedure itself should not be painful, although you may experience mild cramping or pressure as the scope moves through the bowel. Sedation or pain relief medication significantly reduces these sensations, allowing you to remain relaxed throughout. 

Afterwards, you may feel slightly bloated or have minor abdominal discomfort due to air introduced into the bowel during the procedure. This usually settles within a few hours. 

Your consultant and nursing team will monitor you carefully during and after your colonoscopy, ensuring you are comfortable at all times. Our focus is on delivering not only accurate medical results but also a calm and reassuring patient experience. 

When should you have a colonoscopy? 

A colonoscopy may be recommended if you have symptoms such as rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or a change in bowel habits lasting longer than a few weeks. It is also used for routine bowel cancer screening, particularly in people over 50 or those with a family history of bowel cancer or polyps. 

Early detection is key to effective treatment. A colonoscopy allows consultants to identify and remove polyps before they become problematic, significantly reducing long-term risk. If you are uncertain whether a colonoscopy is appropriate for your symptoms, our gastroenterology team can provide advice and, if necessary, arrange a consultation to discuss your options. 

Why choose Hendon Hospital for a private colonoscopy?

 At Hendon Hospital, our goal is to make your diagnostic experience as efficient and comfortable as possible. All colonoscopy procedures are carried out by consultant specialists using advanced endoscopic equipment in a modern, private setting. 

You’ll benefit from fast access to appointments, clear communication, and a seamless pathway from diagnosis through to treatment and aftercare. Our hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art endoscopy suites, recovery rooms, and on-site laboratory facilities, ensuring your care remains under one roof. 

Patients choose us for our consultant-led approach, short waiting times, and personal care in a discreet and supportive environment. We are conveniently located for patients from Hendon, Barnet, Mill Hill and surrounding areas, with ample parking and flexible appointment times to suit your schedule. 

‘My colonoscopy was handled so professionally. Everything was explained in detail, and the staff made me feel at ease throughout.’ 
— Patient review, Hendon Hospital 

How to book a colonoscopy in Hendon 

To book a consultation to discuss colonoscopy with a gastroenterologist near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you. 

If you want to book directly into a colonoscopy procedure, usually you will need a referral from a GP or other healthcare professional. Whether you are a private or NHS patient, your GP can refer you to our hospital to have your colonoscopy. We will then send the results back to your GP.  

If you are already a patient at Hendon Hospital and you need a colonoscopy, your consultant will refer you to our endoscopy team to arrange the procedure.  

If you don’t have a referral but believe you need a colonoscopy, it’s important to speak to a specialist first. Call or book online to make an appointment with a relevant consultant near you, and they will be able to discuss your conditions and, if appropriate, refer you for a colonoscopy.