Private Gastroscopy in Central London
At LSDC Healthcare, we provide private gastroscopy (upper GI endoscopy) in Central London, performed exclusively by consultant gastroenterologists with international expertise.
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Located two minutes from Liverpool Street Station, our modern clinic offers fast access, advanced equipment, and consultant-led care for patients who want answers without NHS delays.Â
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Whether you have reflux, indigestion, or “red flag” symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or unexplained anaemia, a gastroscopy provides clarity, diagnosis, and where needed immediate treatment.
What Is a Gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy, also known as an upper GI endoscopy, uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the:
Oesophagus (food pipe)
Stomach
Duodenum (first part of the small intestine)
The test is the gold standard for investigating upper digestive symptoms. Unlike scans, a gastroscopy allows direct visualisation and, if needed, biopsies or treatments in the same session.
At LSDC, we use high-definition endoscopes, ensuring even small abnormalities can be detected at the earliest possible stage.
Who Should Consider a Gastroscopy?
You may be referred for a gastroscopy if you experience:
Persistent indigestion, reflux, or heartburn
Difficulty or pain swallowing (dysphagia)
Unexplained nausea or vomiting
Iron-deficiency anaemia without clear cause
Rectal or gastrointestinal bleeding (combined with colonoscopy if needed)
Unintentional weight loss
A family history of stomach or oesophageal cancer
Suspected coeliac disease or gastric inflammation
🚨 Alarm Symptoms: When to Act Quickly
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If you have any of the following, you should seek urgent investigation:
Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
Passing black or tarry stools
Difficulty swallowing solids or liquids
Severe unexplained anaemia
Significant, unintentional weight loss
At LSDC, we can usually offer same-week appointments for urgent cases, with rapid access to results and onward management.
What Conditions Can a Gastroscopy Detect?
A gastroscopy can identify:
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and oesophagitis
Barrett’s oesophagus (a precancerous change linked to reflux)
Stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers
Hiatus hernia
Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
Coeliac disease (via duodenal biopsies)
Early stomach or oesophageal cancer
By detecting problems early, gastroscopy not only explains your symptoms but can prevent disease progression.
What Happens During a Gastroscopy?
Preparation:
Fast for 6 hours before your test (clear fluids usually allowed up to 2 hours).
If you take medications such as blood thinners or diabetes tablets, your consultant will advise adjustments.
Procedure:
A local anaesthetic throat spray is applied, and/or light sedation if requested.
A thin, flexible endoscope is passed gently through the mouth into the stomach and duodenum.
The test typically takes 10–15 minutes.
Biopsies may be taken painlessly for laboratory analysis.
Recovery:
If you have sedation, you’ll rest in our recovery area and need an escort home.
If you only have throat spray, you can usually return to work the same day.
Comfort, Safety, and Sedation Options
Many patients worry that a gastroscopy may be uncomfortable. At LSDC, we prioritise comfort:
Throat spray: numbs the back of the throat and is often sufficient.
Light sedation: helps you relax and reduces memory of the procedure.
Specialist nursing support: ensures reassurance throughout.
Complications are rare (risk of bleeding or perforation <0.1%). We follow strict national safety protocols.
Consultant Expertise at LSDC Healthcare
All gastroscopies at LSDC are performed by elite consultant gastroenterologists, amongst the best in their field.
Our lead consultant, Dr Ahmed Albusoda, is one of the UK’s few specialists formally trained in neurogastroenterology and motility disorders, with deep expertise in reflux, dysphagia, and complex functional gut problems.
He works alongside other leading consultants in gastroenterology, surgery, and oncology, providing a multidisciplinary approach for patients requiring more advanced care.
Why Choose LSDC for Your Private Gastroscopy?
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Consultant‑led care only: procedures performed by experienced gastroenterologists with subspecialist skills.
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State-of-the-art equipment for high-definition imaging.
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Rapid access — often available within days.
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Same-day results (with biopsy results in 5–10 days).
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Discreet location — minutes from Liverpool Street Station.
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Recognised by all major insurers — Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Cigna, Vitality.
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Transparent self-pay packages for patients without insurance.
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Personalised aftercare with dietitians, radiologists, and surgeons when needed.
Private Fees and Insurance
We offer transparent self‑pay packages for private gastroscopy, colonoscopy and advanced endoscopic procedures, and we’re recognised by Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Cigna, Healix and other major insurers.Â
Our team will assist with pre‑authorisation and claims to make the process straightforward.
LSDC Healthcare
A couple of minutes outside Liverpool St Station, this excellent facility is conveniently located for Medical consultations in London.
This facility is open during the evenings making it an excellent choice for busy professionals.
Book A Consultation
If you’ve been advised to undergo a gastroscopy, colonoscopy, or would like a second opinion, we invite you to book a consultation with one of our specialists.
Our team will review your symptoms, medical history, and determine the most appropriate diagnostic pathway for you.
FAQ — Gastroscopy (Upper GI Endoscopy)
What is a gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy (upper GI endoscopy) uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It helps diagnose causes of reflux, indigestion, swallowing difficulties, anaemia and other upper digestive symptoms. Biopsies can be taken during the same procedure.
Why might I need a gastroscopy?
Common reasons include persistent heartburn or indigestion, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), nausea or vomiting, unexplained iron‑deficiency anaemia, upper abdominal pain, suspected coeliac disease, or monitoring of Barrett’s oesophagus.
Do I need to fast before the test?
Yes. Please avoid food for at least 6 hours before your appointment. Small sips of clear fluids are usually allowed up to 2 hours prior, unless your consultant advises otherwise.
Is throat spray or sedation better?
Both options are available. Throat spray numbs the back of the throat and allows a quicker recovery. Light sedation helps you relax and reduces awareness of the procedure. Your consultant will help choose what’s best for you.
Will the procedure be painful?
Most people tolerate gastroscopy well. You may feel pressure or a brief gagging sensation. Pain is uncommon. Throat spray and/or light sedation improve comfort significantly.
How long does a gastroscopy take?
The procedure itself typically takes 10–15 minutes. Please allow extra time for admission, consent, and recovery (especially if sedation is used).
What are the risks?
Complications are rare. Small risks include sore throat, bleeding (usually only if biopsies are taken), aspiration, reactions to sedation, and very rarely perforation. Your consultant will discuss benefits and risks before the test.
When will I get my results?
Preliminary findings are usually discussed on the same day. Biopsy results typically take 5–10 working days, followed by a detailed review with your consultant.
Can I eat and drink after the test?
Yes. If you had throat spray, wait until the numbness wears off (usually 30–60 minutes) before eating or drinking. After sedation, start with light food and fluids as advised.
Can I go back to work the same day?
If you only had throat spray, you can usually return to normal activity the same day. If you had sedation, you must not drive, operate machinery, sign legal documents, or work for 24 hours and should have an adult escort home.
What happens if Barrett’s oesophagus is found?
We will create a personalised surveillance plan (scheduled gastroscopies and biopsies) and, where appropriate, discuss minimally invasive treatments such as radiofrequency ablation or endoscopic resection.
Will you test for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)?
Yes. If indicated, small biopsies from the stomach can be taken to test for H. pylori and other causes of inflammation. Results guide targeted treatment.
Is the procedure covered by insurance?
Yes. We are recognised by Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Cigna, Healix and most other major insurers. Our team can assist with pre‑authorisation and claims.
Where will my gastroscopy take place?
Procedures are performed at our centre or at one of our trusted London hospital partners, depending on your case. Consultations take place at LSDC Healthcare near Liverpool Street Station.