Overview
Endoscopy
Overview
We provide a range of endoscopic procedures for diagnosis and treatment.
Most involve having a thin tube with a tiny camera on the end passed through a natural opening in your body. This could be your nose, mouth or bottom.
The camera sends images to a screen so we can get a close look at the inside of your body.
You may have a tissue sample (biopsy) taken for analysis at a laboratory.
Most endoscopic procedures take place in our unit at St Thomas' Hospital using modern techniques and technology.
We also do some procedures in the day surgery unit at Guy's Hospital.
We see people as part of their care for different conditions, including:
- anaemia
- anal bleeding
- cancers of the digestive tract
- colitis
- Crohn's disease
- gallstones
- inflammation of the oesophagus (oesophagitis)
- liver conditions
- ulcers
Health information
We have produced a range of health information for you.
- Transnasal endoscopy
- Entonox (gas and air) for pain relief in the endoscopy unit
- Colonoscopy
- Surveillance colonoscopy for patients with inflammatory bowel disease
- Colonoscopy diet advice and bowel preparation
- Endoscopic muscosal resection (EMR)
- Endoscopic ultrasound for guided drainage
- POEM (peroral endoscopic myotomy) for oesophageal achalsia
- ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatogram)
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Gastroscopy
Our consultants
Leo Chong
Robin Dart
John Meenan
Shuvra Ray
Research and clinical trials
Research is vital to improving the care that you receive when you're unwell. You can help improve healthcare by taking part in research studies at our Trust. During your appointment, ask your healthcare professional about research. They'll be happy to tell you about research studies you could be eligible to join.
Last updated: January 2024
