Gastroenterology

Gastroenterologists study the physiology of the gastrointestinal organs, including how food is moving through the stomach and intestines and how nutrients are digested and absorbed. They also look at how waste is removed from the body and the normal function of the liver.

Gastrointestinal issues can cause pain and discomfort, ranging from fairly minor to serious. To gather an understanding of your specific condition, gastroenterologists can use a range of methods to examine your digestive tract. This might include an endoscopy, ctCT scanning and ultrasound scans, which can help create a fully comprehensive picture of your gastrointestinal organs.

We are proud to facilitate consultant gastroenterologists who can help test, diagnose, and treat or manage your gastrointestinal issues in order to improve your quality of life.

If you are suffering from any gastrointestinal problem, your GP will be the first point of contact and will refer you to a specialist if needed. Some of the most common symptoms for gastrointestinal disorders are:  

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• A change in bowel habits
• Rectal bleeding
• Heartburn
• Loss of appetite and weight
• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Esophageal pain
• Excessive gas or belching

There are many common disorders of the upper and lower digestive tract, and it is always important to speak with your GP in the first instance. Some of these disorders include:  

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (Chron's and colitis)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Ulcers
• Cancer
• Coeliac Disease

Gastroenterology comprises a wide variety of procedures from minor non-invasive treatments to complex surgery. Some of the operations we perform most commonly include:

Endoscopy

An endoscopy is a procedure we use to see inside your body, which will often be recommended if you're having symptoms that point to gastroenterological problems. There are various types of endoscopy, which explore different areas of your digestive tract and look for numerous possible conditions and problems. Typically the procedure is performed using a thin flexible tube with a small camera inside (called an endoscope), and this is passed into your body through a natural opening such as your mouth or anus.

Gastroscopy

A gastroscopy, also known as an upper GI (gastrointestinal tract) endoscopy or OGD (Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy), is a procedure to look inside your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine.

During a gastroscopy, your consultant will insert a small, flexible tube with a camera and light attached to it, called an endoscope, into your intestine through your mouth. This endoscope is connected to a monitor that your consultant can refer to as they perform the procedure. A gastroscopy can help diagnose many conditions that affect your stomach, including stomach ulcers, a blockage in your oesophagus, or non-cancerous growths.

Treatment for GORD

There are various treatments available for GORD, from lifestyle modifications and medications to surgery. One common type of surgery for chronic reflux is Nissen fundoplication. More recent developments include Stretta, a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency to treat the underlying cause of the GORD.

Treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

There is currently no cure for ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, but there are many treatments available to help you to manage the condition. This includes everything from medications to diet or lifestyle changes, to surgery on your colon.

At Circle Health Group, our gastroenterologists can help you to find the best IBD treatment for your individual situation, and can easily refer you to specialists in other disciplines if needed.

The first step to access private gastroenterology treatment with us is usually to arrange an appointment with one of our specialists. They will be able to assess and diagnose your condition and talk you through the available treatment options, and together you'll decide on the best route for you.

To book your initial consultation, call our dedicated team of advisors, or take advantage of our easy online booking system.

You can access gastroenterology treatment with us using private medical insurance or by paying for your own treatment.

Often gastroenterology treatment will be covered by your private health insurance, but not always. Speak to your provider directly to see what's covered in your policy.

If you want to pay for your own treatment, you can either pay in full or take advantage of our flexible payment options, which allow you to spread the cost over a period of up to five years.

Our self-pay customers benefit from fixed-price packages, meaning you'll know exactly what you're going to pay before you book your surgery. Your initial consultation and early diagnostic tests won't be included, but the cost of any procedures and hospital fees are, and so is your aftercare programme. There are no hidden costs down the line.

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 standards 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 our treatments for disorders of the digestive system, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.

Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in May 2023. Next review due May 2026.

1. Gastroenterology, NHS
2. What is a gastroenterologist?, WebMD
3. Inflammatory bowel disease, NHS