Gastroenterology treatment near you

What is gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on disorders of the digestive system. This includes:

• the oesophagus
• stomach
• intestines
• pancreas
• gallbladder
• bile ducts
• liver
• bowel.

Gastroenterologists use non-surgical and surgical gastroenterology approaches to investigate and treat conditions affecting how your body digests food and absorbs nutrients.

Common gastroenterology disorders and conditions

Among the most common gastroenterology disorder and conditions are the following:

• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
• Colorectal cancer
• Gallstones and bile duct disease
• Liver diseases, including hepatitis and cirrhosis
• Pancreatitis
• Diverticulitis
• Gastrointestinal infections.

Common gastroenterology symptoms

If you experience any of the following, it may be time to see a gastroenterology specialist:

• Ongoing abdominal pain or bloating
• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Blood in your stool
• Sudden or unexplained weight loss
• Trouble swallowing
• Persistent diarrhoea or constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue related to digestive issues.

Gastroenterology surgery types

Some conditions may require minimally invasive or open gastroenterology surgery. Common procedures include:

• Laparoscopic gallbladder removal
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) – used to treat bile duct issues
• Colon resection surgery
• Polyp or tumour removal
• Treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding
• Hernia repair surgery.

All surgeries are performed by experienced specialists in safe, modern facilities, using the latest techniques to support fast recovery.

Please note that not all gastroenterology procedures are available at all Practice Plus Group hospitals and sites. For a full breakdown, take a look at our treatments and prices.

Available gastroenterology treatments

Practice Plus Group offers a wide range of evidence-based gastroenterology treatments to support your digestive health. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition, unexplained symptoms, or recovering from surgery, our team will create a personalised treatment plan that’s right for you.

Gastroscopy

A gastroscopy (also known as an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy) is a common and safe procedure used to investigate symptoms affecting the stomach and intestines.

During the procedure, your consultant will gently pass a thin, flexible tube with a camera through your mouth and into your oesophagus, stomach and the top of your small intestine. This allows them to examine the inside of your digestive tract, take biopsies, or even treat certain conditions on the spot.

Gastroscopy may be recommended to investigate:

• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain or bloating
• Vomiting or blood in your stool.

Most procedures are carried out with a sedative or local anaesthetic spray to minimise discomfort. You’ll usually be able to return home on the same day.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a test which allows a consultant to use an endoscope (a very thin, long camera) to examine the large bowel and parts of the small bowel.

A colonoscopy could be of benefit to you if you are suffering from:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Chronic constipation
• Chronic diarrhoea
• Rectal bleeding
• Problems with your intestine.

Gastroenterology tests

At Practice Plus Group, we offer a full range of diagnostic tests. These include:

• Gastrointestinal endoscopy (gastroscopy and colonoscopy) using a thin, flexible tube
• Biopsy (tissue sampling)
• Ultrasound and imaging
• ERCP for the bile ducts and pancreas
• Blood tests to assess liver function or inflammation.

These tests are key to reaching a clear diagnosis and starting the right gastroenterology treatment.

Please note that not all gastroenterology procedures are available at all Practice Plus Group hospitals and sites. For a full breakdown, take a look at our treatments and prices.

Potential risks and complications

While all types of surgery carry some level of risk, our team strives to keep you safe. Among the risks associated with gastroenterology procedures include:

• Discomfort after endoscopy
• Bleeding or infection (this is rare)
• Adverse reactions to sedation
• Minor post-operative complications.

Our dedicated care teams are trained to handle any complications that may arise. They will also keep you informed throughout your procedure.

Private vs NHS gastroenterology waiting times

With NHS services under ever-increasing pressure, waiting times for gastroenterology procedures can be long. At Practice Plus Group, you can typically see a consultant within 1–2 weeks and undergo tests or surgery (if needed) within 4-6 weeks.

Private care means:

• Faster access
• Consistent consultant-led care throughout
• Flexible appointment times to suit you
• Personalised treatment in modern facilities.

How much do gastroenterology procedures cost?

We offer affordable, transparent pricing for private gastroenterology services. Below is a typical price guide for some of our most requested procedures:

Procedure	Colonoscopy	Flexible sigmoidoscopy	Gastroscopy
Price	£1,849	£1,399	£1,399

Please note that not all gastroenterology procedures are available at all Practice Plus Group hospitals and sites. For a full breakdown, take a look at our treatments and prices.

Ways to pay

You can access private gastroenterology treatment via the following ways:

• Self-pay
• Private medical insurance
• Flexible payment plans through a trusted finance partner.

If you’re undecided or need a little help, why not have a chat with one of our team to discuss your options on 0330 818 8945.

What to expect

If you decide to have your gastroenterology treatment with us, here’s what your healthcare journey will look like:

• Initial consultation (although this isn't always required)
• Review of symptoms and medical history.

Please note that not all gastroenterology procedures are available at all Practice Plus Group hospitals and sites. For a full breakdown, take a look at our treatments and prices.

Preparing for gastroenterology treatment

To help get you feeling prepared for your gastroenterology treatment, here’s what you can expect beforehand:

• You may be asked to fast or take a bowel prep
• Some medications may need to be paused
• You’ll receive a full explanation and written instructions
• Let us know about any allergies or previous procedures.

The procedure

Most tests are done as day cases, using minimally invasive techniques. Procedures like gastroscopy, colonoscopy are carried out using a thin flexible tube with a camera. This allows your specialist to examine the digestive system closely and clearly.

Recovery from surgical gastroenterology

After the procedure, you’ll be monitored closely. Most patients can return home the same day or after a short stay.

Recovery tips:

• Rest and follow post-op advice
• Avoid heavy lifting
• Resume physical activity gradually
• Follow your personalised diet and medication plan.

Find a gastroenterology consultant

Looking for an experienced gastroenterology consultant near you? Our trusted specialists are based at leading hospitals across the UK and are here to provide expert, personalised care from your first consultation right through to your treatment and follow-up.

Our consultants have trained at top medical schools and bring years of experience in managing gastroenterology procedures, complex digestive disorders, and surgical gastroenterology cases. They work closely with you to diagnose and treat your problem, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident at every step of your care.

Please note that not all gastroenterology procedures are available at all Practice Plus Group hospitals and sites. Take a look at the pricing table at the top of the page for a rundown of what’s available.