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Patients & Visitors

Endoscopy

Endoscopy

MRI Scans

Ultrasound

Manometry

About endoscopy

An endoscopy is a procedure where the inside of the body is examined internally using an endoscope. An endoscope is a thin, long, flexible tube that contains a light source and a video camera, so that images of the inside of the body can be relayed to an external monitor (screen).

Patients are normally awake during the procedure but can have a sedative if they feel anxious.

Endoscopes are used mainly as a diagnostic tool, though there are some specially adapted endoscopes that can be used to treat certain conditions, such as gallstones.

What is a diagnostic upper GI endoscopy?

Diagnostic gastroscopy is a test used to diagnose problems in the upper part of the digestive tract. This includes the oesophagus (gullet), stomach and duodenum (the first section of the small intestine).

What problems can the test diagnose?

  • Peptic ulcers
  • Non-ulcer dyspepsia (indigestion that's not caused by an ulcer)
  • Damage caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), when stomach acid comes back up the oesophagus or gullet
  • Cancer of the stomach or oesophagus, although this is rare

The RUH has a range of leaflets available about endoscopy tests that can be found on this page.

Community Diagnostics

We work in partnership with Sulis Hospital Bath as part of the Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) program. This collaboration helps us provide additional diagnostic endoscopy appointments, supporting patients in facing their healthcare needs with reduced waiting times and timely access to care.

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