What is endoscopy?
Gastrointestinal endoscopy involves looking inside the gastrointestinal tract using flexible instruments that carry light through a fibreoptic bundle and return the image digitally. Endoscopy allows diagnosis by direct viewing for abnormalities, taking small samples of tissue (biopsy), and intervention such as removal of polyps (polypectomy).

Common examples of endoscopy
Gastroscopy or oesophago-gastroduodenoscopy – examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the duodenum. Colonoscopy – examination of the lower gastrointestinal tract from the rectum to the caecum or ileum.

Where is it performed?
All endoscopy is performed in a hospital setting, usually as a day case. You may choose to have your endoscopy performed at either a private hospital or public hospital. There is a longer waiting list in public hospitals and you do not have choice of doctor. Sedation is required for most endoscopy procedures and in private hospitals it is given by another doctor.

Appointments for endoscopy
Please use this secure website to book your endoscopy appointment or telephone (02) 6162 1515 or fax (02) 6162 1313. Generally, you will be asked to see either our doctor or nurse first although if you have seen us in the past year, your endoscopy may be booked directly. Alternatively, your referring doctor may contact us directly if the matter is urgent. Dr Bassett and Dr Drini are willing to perform endoscopy examinations without a prior consultation for specific indications.