Colonoscopy procedure

If you have bowel discomfort, a colonoscopy is likely the most effective procedure to understand how we can help you feel better.

A colonoscopy is an effective procedure for diagnosing bowel problems.

If you have been experiencing bowel discomfort and your doctor has booked you in for a colonoscopy, it's essential for us to put your mind at ease by laying out all the facts.

A colonoscopy is a procedure to look at the inside of the large bowel (colon) using a thin flexible tube with a light and camera at the end of it. The aim is to pass the tube around the large bowel. Some air needs to be blown in through the camera so clear views can be obtained of the bowel.

What are the benefits of a colonoscopy?

If the endoscopist (the person doing the colonoscopy) finds a problem, they can perform biopsies (removing small pieces of tissue) to help make the diagnosis. Sometimes a polyp (small growth) is the cause of the problem and the endoscopist may be able to remove it during the procedure.

Are there any alternatives to a colonoscopy?

Other options include a barium enema (an x-ray test of the large bowel) although this is rarely used now. More commonly a CT colonography (a special scan of the large bowel) is used to detect any abnormalities. However, a colonoscopy is the gold standard test that can see the lining and also take biopsies at the same time if required.

What does the procedure involve?

A colonoscopy usually takes between half an hour and three-quarters of an hour but this can vary for every patient. The endoscopist will be able to look for problems such as inflammation or polyps, which are warty growths in the bowel and are very common. They will be able to perform biopsies and take photographs to help make the diagnosis and some polyps may also be removed during the procedure.

If appropriate, the endoscopist may offer you a gas & air or a sedative to help you relax, but this will be discussed with you along with any risks.

Colonoscopy or camera into bowel

Please be aware that the following prices are a guide price. Your final price will be confirmed in writing following your consultation and any necessary diagnostic tests.

Patient pathway	Initial consultation	Diagnostic Investigations	Main treatment	Post discharge care	Guide price
Hospital fees	N/A	Not included	£1,811	Included	£1,811
Consultants fees from	£200	N/A	Included	Included	£200
Guide price	£2,011

Exam of lower bowel under anaesthetic

Please be aware that the following prices are a guide price. Your final price will be confirmed in writing following your consultation and any necessary diagnostic tests.