Services
What is an Endoscopy (gastroscopy or OGD)?
It is an examination of your oesophagus (gullet), stomach and duodenum (the first part of the bowel beyond the stomach). A thin, flexible tube is passed through the mouth into the stomach. The test is performed as a day-case under light sedation or local anaesthetic sprayed on the back of the throat. The test is very quick and much easier than might be thought.
It is important that you have nothing to eat or drink for at least 4 hours before the test. You may take your regular medications but should inform Dr Evans if you are on blood-thinning medicines. The test helps to diagnose acid reflux or oesophagitis, hiatus hernia, gastric or duodenal ulcer disease, Barrett’s oesophagus, coeliac disease and less-common conditions including oesophageal and stomach cancer.
Gastroscopy or upper GI endoscopy or OGD (short for oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy) procedure code G6500
Having a Colonoscopy
It is an examination of the bowel performed by passing a thin, flexible tube, called a colonoscope, via the back passage and along the large intestine (colon).
The test is usually performed as a day-case under conscious sedation. This allows examination of the large bowel (colon) and last part of the small bowel (terminal ileum). It may be necessary to take a biopsy (small piece of tissue) for further investigation. This is done painlessly through the tube using tiny forceps.
The test takes about 20-30 minutes to complete. It sometimes picks up polyps (small projections of tissue) which are easily removed and prevent the development of bowel cancer .
Colonoscopy procedure code H2002
Having a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Sometimes a shortened version of a colonoscopy procedure called a flexible-sigmoidoscopy may be performed instead which visualises the left side of the colon only.
This procedure takes about 10-15 minutes and does usually require sedation or prior bowel prep. When you arrive at the day-case unit the nurse caring for you will insert an enema to clear your bowel prior to the procedure.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy procedure code H2502
What is High Resolution Manometry and pH Testing?
Oesophageal physiology testing can reveal the underlying causes of oesophageal reflux, problems with swallowing and chest pain suspected to be arising from the oesophagus. If indicated the 2 part test involves the insertion of a small tube into the oesophagus via the nostril. Manometry measures the pressure generated by the oesophageal muscles over 20 minutes. The second test measures acid reflux over a longer 24 hour period. Both tests are outpatient procedures performed at QEII Hospital and can be arranged if needed.
These studies can reveal the underlying causes of oesophageal reflux and swallowing difficulties. These tests help Dr Evans to design an effective treatment plan, bespoke to your individual needs.
What is a Barrett's Assessment?
Barrett’s is a common condition that can increase the chance of developing cancer of the oesophagus. The condition is related to acid reflux causing the lining of the lower oesophagus to switch to a cell type resembling that seen in the stomach. Once developed the condition needs regular checking with endoscopy. Dr Evans is an expert in this condition and has years of experience in detecting the early signs of cancer that can occur. If you have Barrett’s and would like to discuss your condition then please make an appointment by contacting us here. Dr Evans will provide specialist assessment and treatment plans if indicated.
