Endoscopy suite

If you need an endoscopy and live in Coventry, Nuneaton or Rugby, The Meriden Hospital boasts a dedicated private endoscopy suite, consisting of four recovery bays, a fully equipped procedure room, as well as a privacy/consent room.

We provide private diagnostic procedures for a variety of gastroenterology and urology conditions, including:

• Colonoscopy
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy
• Oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD)
• Flexible cystoscopy
• Banding of haemorrhoids
• A combined procedure of colonoscopy and gastroscopy

What is an Endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a procedure which allows a consultant to see inside the body. The endoscope itself is a thin, flexible tube with a camera and a light source on the end (as well as a surgical instrument, if you're having an operation).

This procedure can be used to investigate unusual symptoms or treat a range of conditions. It can also be performed to carry out a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken for further analysis.

Why you might need an endoscopy?

An endoscopy might be suggested if you're experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Abdominal pain
• Persistent nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting blood
• Blood in stools
• Chest pain that's unrelated to heart conditions

Private Endoscopy Treatments at The Meriden Hospital

We offer and perform several different types of private endoscopy procedures, though the type of endoscopy you have will depend on the symptoms you're experiencing.

• Gastroscopy - this is used to examine the oesophagus, stomach or first part of the small intestine
• Colonoscopy - this is used to examine the bowel
• Cystoscopy - this is used to investigate the inside of the bladder
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy - this is used to examine the left side of the bowel

We also offer the following:

• Banding of haemorrhoids
• Colonoscopy information
• Flexible signmoidoscopy
• Flexible cystoscopy female
• Flexible cystoscopy male
• Upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy
• Upper GI endoscopy and dilation
• Upper GI endoscopy

Your Private Endoscopy Journey at The Meriden Hospital

How to prepare for an endoscopy

If you need an endoscopy, your consultant will give you instructions to make sure you're fully prepared before the procedure takes place.

It's always important to tell your consultant about any medications you're taking. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood-thinners. However, it's important not to stop taking your prescription medication unless your consultant advises you to do so.

You should also make your consultant aware of any allergies you have, as well as your previous medical history.

Most endoscopies require the patient to stop eating food or drinking water four to eight hours before the procedure so your stomach is empty. You may also be given laxatives to help clear your system.

What to expect

Depending on which part of your body needs to be looked at, an endoscope may be inserted through your mouth, back passage, or through a small incision in your skin.

You may have a local anaesthetic to numb one part of your body or you might be offered a mild sedative to help you relax.

Is an endoscopy painful?

An endoscopy isn't painful, but most people experience a little discomfort similar to a sore throat or indigestion.

What happens after an endoscopy?

After an endoscopy, you will need to rest for about an hour to let the effect of any anaesthetic or sedative wear off. Once this has worn off, you should be able to go home. You don't need to stay overnight for this procedure.

If you do decide to take a sedative, you will need to be taken home by a friend or relative - you shouldn't drive for the rest of the day.

Your doctor will advise you on when you'll find out the results from your procedure. If necessary, you may be referred to a different specialist for ongoing diagnosis or treatment.

Payment Options

Accessing private healthcare is easy, whether you choose to pay directly or use private medical insurance.

If you are paying for yourself, we can usually offer an upfront cost which you can then choose to pay in full or access one of our easy payment options.

If you have insurance, we can arrange direct settlement with your insurance provider, although you should check in advance to see if your treatment is covered. For more information, visit our private medical insurance page.