Gastroscopy

At Welbeck, your gastroscopy will be carried out by a leading gastroenterologist, supported by a multidisciplinary staff. You’ll have a consultation with your gastroenterologist before the procedure. They’ll explain what it involves, how to prepare for it, and answer any questions you may have. 

During gastroscopy: 

• your consultant may start by spraying your throat with a local anaesthetic, or by giving you a sedative to help you relax

• you’ll be asked to lie on your side, and a thin, flexible tube (an endoscope) will be gently passed through your mouth and into the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum

• the endoscope will pump air into your stomach and duodenum, which will make them easier to see

• you'll be able to breathe normally during the procedure

• when the procedure is finished, the endoscope will be carefully removed

• you’ll be able to recover from any sedative in a private, comfortable recovery room

Most patients don’t find the procedure to be too uncomfortable, and many will fall asleep during the test. A gastroscopy usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes, and our highly-trained nurses will monitor your vital signs and keep you as comfortable as possible during this time. The effect of any sedative usually wears off within 2 hours, and once you feel able, you can go home on the same day. 

Some results from your gastroscopy will be available the same day, and your consultant will discuss these with you before you leave. The results of any biopsies may take a few days longer.

A gastroscopy is considered to be a safe procedure. Although complications can occur, they’re very rare when the procedure is performed by experienced gastroenterology specialists.

Possible complications include:

• a sore throat or mild discomfort after the test

• reactions to sedation, such as low blood pressure or breathing problems

• bleeding after a biopsy or treatment (usually minor)

Very rarely, complications can include a tear in the lining of the gut or infection. Your consultant will give you information about possible signs of complications to look out for.

You can reduce your risk of complications by carefully following your consultant’s instructions about preparing for your procedure.

Before your gastroscopy, you’ll meet with your gastroenterologist for a consultation. During this appointment, they will:

• explain how to prepare for the procedure

• review any medications you take

• discuss any medical conditions you have, such as heart or lung disease

Your consultant will give you specific instructions on preparation and fasting. It’s very important that you follow these instructions carefully.

Preparation may include:

• not eating for 6 hours before the procedure

• not drinking for 2 hours before the procedure

• stopping certain medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood-thinning drugs

After your gastroscopy procedure at Welbeck, you'll be able to rest in a private, comfortable recovery area for around 1 to 2 hours, until most of the sedative has worn off.

After the procedure, you may: 

• have a mild sore throat

• feel bloated

• experience cramps

These symptoms will improve with time. 

The sedative will affect your reflexes for the rest of the day. So, it's important that you arrange to have someone collect you and take you home after the procedure. You won’t be able to drive or operate machinery for 24 hours.

A self-funded gastroscopy at Welbeck costs £1,540.

Gastroscopy with colonoscopy costs £2,475.

Please contact our Digestive Health centre for more information.

At Welbeck, our gastroenterologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book a gastroscopy, you must be referred by either your GP or a gastroenterologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a Welbeck gastroenterologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.