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The cytosponge is an innovative diagnostic tool that is used to detect conditions of the oesophagus, such as Barrett's oesophagus. Identifying these conditions early can stop them from developing into cancer. The cytosponge is a non-invasive procedure that can provide a precise diagnosis quickly and conveniently.
During a cytosponge procedure, a small sponge on a string is swallowed, and then retrieved after a few minutes. The sponge collects cells from the oesophagus, which are then analysed for any abnormalities. This is a simple and painless procedure that can be performed in the comfort of our private clinic.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as heartburn or difficulty swallowing, or if you are at increased risk for conditions of the oesophagus, a cytosponge procedure may be right for you. Get in touch to schedule a consultation to explore your treatment options with one of our experienced gastroenterologists. For more information on cytosponge or other throat treatments, are here to help you. Call or book online today and you could have your initial consultation within 48 hours.
Here are some of the common symptoms that can be investigated using a cytosponge procedure:
Heartburn
Heartburn is a common symptom of acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus. If left untreated, acid reflux can damage the lining of the oesophagus and increase the risk of developing Barrett's oesophagus.
Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can be caused by a range of conditions affecting the oesophagus. It can be a sign of narrowing or blockages in the oesophagus, which can be caused by Barrett's oesophagus.
Chest pain
Chest pain is a common symptom of acid reflux, but it can also be a sign of more serious conditions affecting the oesophagus, such as oesophageal cancer.
A cytosponge procedure is used to investigate symptoms associated with chronic reflux (also known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease or GORD). It can identify the cause of your reflux and help us to decide the best course of treatment. Conditions it can uncover include:
Barrett's oesophagus
This is a pre-cancerous condition that affects the lining of the oesophagus. It's important to detect this condition early in order to start treatment and prevent the development of oesophageal cancer. A cytosponge procedure can help detect Barrett's oesophagus before it progresses to cancer.
Oesophagitis
Oesophagitis is a condition in which the lining of the oesophagus becomes inflamed, typically due to acid reflux. A cytosponge procedure can help determine the underlying cause of oesophagitis and guide effective treatment.
Hiatal hernia
A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes into the chest through the diaphragm. This can cause heartburn, acid reflux, and other uncomfortable symptoms. A cytosponge procedure can help diagnose hiatal hernias and guide appropriate treatment.
At Circle Health Group, we understand that the prospect of undergoing a cytosponge procedure can be daunting. That's why we aim to provide the highest quality care and support to our patients, from the initial consultation through to treatment and follow-up care.
During your initial consultation, one of our specialist consultants will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the best course of action for your unique situation. This may include a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and a discussion of your symptoms.
If a cytosponge procedure is appropriate, the consultant will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have. They will also discuss what will happen when you get the results of the procedure and guide you through the process of developing a personalised treatment plan.
A cytosponge procedure typically takes around 5-10 minutes to perform. It is a non-invasive procedure that can be performed in the comfort of our private outpatient clinic during a regular appointment. It isn't painful but it can be a bit uncomfortable, so you might be offered a mild anaesthetic spray.
After making sure you are seated comfortably on a chair and feeling prepared, we will ask you to swallow the cytosponge, which is inside a dissolvable capsule attached to a string. We'll give you water to help you swallow it. On the other end of the string is a piece of card, which your consultant or nurse will keep hold of throughout.
The capsule holding the sponge will dissolve in your stomach in about seven minutes, after which we gently remove it by pulling on the string. This takes seconds and doesn't hurt but might feel momentarily uncomfortable.
The sponge collects cells from the oesophagus, which are then analysed for any abnormalities. Before you leave, your consultant will give you an idea of how soon you can expect your results. We will get them to you as soon as possible.
What are the risks or potential complications of a cytosponge?
The risks associated with a cytosponge procedure are minimal. In rare cases, you may experience mild discomfort, gagging, or nausea during the procedure. There is also a slight risk of bleeding or perforation, but this is extremely rare.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
- Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine
- The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant suit your needs
- Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
- Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
- Private ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
- Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
- Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care
If you would like to learn more about cytosponge, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in March 2023. Next review due March 2026.
- Cytosponge, NHS Inform Scotland
- Cytosponge: A ‘sponge on a string’ test to detect oesophageal cancer earlier, Cancer Research UK
- Cytosponge, Reflux UK
- The Cytosponge, NIHR
- Cytosponge for detecting abnormal cells in the oesophagus, NICE
