A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inside of your large intestine (colon and rectum)
A colonoscopy is a powerful diagnostic tool for assessing the health of your colon and rectum. At The London Independent Hospital, part of Circle Health Group, we provide private colonoscopy services in a safe, comfortable, and professional environment. Our consultants, endoscopy team and support staff guide you through every step with clarity, compassion, and clinical excellence. We’re there for you from referral and preparation, throughout the procedure and your aftercare.
Whether you have symptoms that need investigation or prefer to access care privately for faster diagnosis, our team ensures you receive thorough, expert evaluation with minimal waiting times.
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure in which a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope is gently inserted through the rectum into the large intestine (colon). The colonoscope is equipped with a camera and light, capturing images that allow your consultant to see the inner lining of your bowel, identify abnormalities and, where necessary, take biopsies or remove polyps during the same procedure.
Colonoscopy is a gold-standard test for detecting bowel conditions such as polyps, inflammation, bleeding sources, and early signs of colorectal cancer. Because it allows direct examination and intervention, it’s frequently used when other imaging tests (such as ultrasound or CT) are inconclusive, or when symptoms warrant deeper investigation.
The procedure is typically done under sedation so the patient is comfortable, and the bowel must be thoroughly cleansed beforehand to ensure clear visibility.
A colonoscopy can identify a range of bowel and colorectal conditions, such as:
Because colonoscopy allows biopsy, tissue samples can be analysed to confirm diagnoses and guide treatment.
The cost of a colonoscopy will depend on various factors, including the reason you are having the procedure and whether any treatments are performed during, for example the removal of polyps.
You will be given a detailed quotation before we book you in for your colonoscopy, so you know exactly what to expect. This will include the hospital fees and consultant fees, as well as any necessary aftercare.
Your initial consultation will be charged separately.
The core colonoscopy procedure generally takes 30 to 45 minutes, though this can extend if the clinician removes polyps or performs biopsies.
Including preparation, sedation, recovery and observation time, your total time in hospital may be around 1.5 to 2 hours, sometimes slightly longer depending on your individual needs.
Most patients can go home the same day once sedation wears off and recovery criteria are met.
To prepare for your colonoscopy, you must follow a clear-liquid diet the day before the procedure. This typically includes:
Solid food, high-fibre items, red or purple liquids, and dairy products should be avoided.
Your consultant will prescribe a bowel preparation solution (laxatives / purge) to clear your colon. You’ll likely begin this the evening before or early on the day of the procedure.
Clear bowel preparation is essential. Any residual stool can obscure the view and reduce diagnostic accuracy.
After taking the bowel preparation solution, you can expect to spend several hours having frequent visits to the toilet as your bowel empties. The timing and duration vary between individuals.
The first loose bowel movements often occur within 1–2 hours of starting the prep. The process continues, sometimes into overnight hours, until the bowel is cleared.
You’ll want to stay near a toilet during this time, and many patients report extended time in the bathroom, particularly in the first few cycles of the purge.
Your care team will provide guidance on timing, hydration, and how to manage comfort during this phase.
If biopsies or tissue samples are taken during your colonoscopy, they are sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis.
Typically, results are available within 7 to 14 days, although more complex histological investigations can sometimes take longer.
When the report is ready, your consultant or referring clinician will review it with you, explain any findings, and suggest next steps or treatment options.
Patients opt for The London Independent Hospital for colonoscopy because of its blend of clinical excellence, comfort, and integrated care under the Circle Health Group umbrella.
When you choose us, you benefit from:
You’ll be guided through every step – from preparation and consent to recovery and follow-up – with clarity, support, and expert care.
To book a colonoscopy at The London Independent Hospital, 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 The London Independent 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.
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