Endoscopy at Werndale Hospital

Our dedicated Ambulatory Care theatre provides a safe, modern environment where you can receive high quality diagnostic care without delay.

We offer a full range of endoscopic procedures to investigate and diagnose gastrointestinal (GI) conditions, including:

• Colonoscopy
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy
• Oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD / gastroscopy)
• Banding of haemorrhoids
• Combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy

Your care is delivered by experienced consultant gastroenterologists, supported by a specialist nursing team who are committed to maintaining your comfort, privacy and dignity throughout your visit.

When a Private Endoscopy may be recommended at Werndale Hospital

Your consultant may suggest an endoscopy if you are experiencing symptoms that could indicate a problem within your digestive system, such as:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Ongoing abdominal pain
• Persistent nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting blood
• Blood in your stools
• Chest pain not related to heart conditions

A private endoscopy can help identify the cause of your symptoms quickly, allowing you to begin treatment sooner.

Types of Endoscopy available at Werndale Hospital

 We offer several types of endoscopy, depending on the area being examined:

• Gastroscopy (OGD): Examines the oesophagus, stomach and upper small intestine
• Colonoscopy: Examines the full length of the bowel
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Examines the lower part of the bowel
• Capsule Endoscopy: A swallowable camera used to assess the small intestine

Your Endoscopy journey

Preparing for your procedure

Your consultant will explain how to prepare for your endoscopy. This may include:

• Sharing details of any medications you take
• Stopping certain medicines, such as blood thinners (only if advised)
• Informing us of allergies or previous medical conditions
• Fasting for four to eight hours before your procedure
• Taking laxatives if your bowel needs to be cleared
• We recommend a friend or family member attend your appointment with you

These steps help ensure your procedure is safe and effective.

During Your Endoscopy

An endoscopy isn’t painful, but most people experience a little bit of discomfort similar to a sore throat or indigestion. Depending on the type of endoscopy, the endoscope will be gently inserted either through your mouth or into your rectum so your consultant can examine the relevant part of your digestive system.

To help you feel comfortable, you may be offered:

• A local anaesthetic
• A mild sedative
• A general anaesthetic (in some cases)

If you are conscious during your procedure, you will be asked if you have any pain or discomfort and you may be offered pain relief, such as Entonox. 

After Your Procedure

• You’ll rest in our recovery lounge for around an hour, with a well-earned cup of tea and a snack
• You can go home the same day
• You will need to organise transport home, if you decide to take a sedative – you shouldn’t drive for the rest of the day.
• In most cases, we can give you a final report on the day, although samples sent to the laboratory to examine under a microscope will typically take two weeks to come back.
• If necessary, you may be referred to a different specialist for ongoing diagnosis or treatment, and this will be arranged promptly by your consultant.

Why Choose Werndale Hospital?

• Fast access to private diagnostic procedures
• Experienced consultants
• Modern Ambulatory Care facilities designed for patient comfort
• A calm, supportive and welcoming environment
• Clear follow up guidance and ongoing care

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.