Endoscopy Cheltenham
Modern and precise gastrointestinal endoscopy services offered across Cheltenham.
Understanding Endoscopy
Problems with digestion can cause ongoing pain, disruption, and worry. From recurring stomach aches and changes in bowel patterns to unexpected bleeding, seeking timely answers is the first step toward peace of mind.
Your digestive system plays a central role in overall health, but symptoms like pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits may point to problems that need closer investigation. That’s where an endoscopy procedure with an experienced surgeon, such as Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam, may help.
What is an Endoscopy Procedure?
Through a small, flexible camera, an endoscopy enables close examination of areas such as the oesophagus, stomach, small bowel, and colon. It’s an important tool for detecting conditions including ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, and liver disorders.
Gastroscopies and colonoscopies are common types of endoscopy used to examine the digestive system. A gastroscopy investigates the upper tract, while a colonoscopy focuses on the large bowel and rectum. For people across Cheltenham and regional Victoria, these procedures often deliver important answers and next steps for care.
Your Endoscopy Procedure With Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam
Dedicated to high standards of medical care and patient comfort, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam combines modern surgical methods with a caring, personal touch. He and his team understand the concerns many people have before an endoscopy and prioritise making every step comfortable and reassuring.
Every procedure undertaken by Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam aligns with the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards. His approach to colonoscopy and gastroscopy follows the Colonoscopy Clinical Care Standard to ensure patients receive reliable, evidence-informed care.
- Full gastroenterology support and treatment options
- Procedures aimed towards diagnosis and treatment of digestive conditions
- Modern, fully equipped medical facilities
- Warm, understanding approach for every patient
In some cases, being placed on a waiting list may delay a diagnosis that should have been given much earlier. For patients who may benefit from urgent examination, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam offers open-access endoscopy. This means you can book your procedure directly after your Telehealth or face-to-face appointment. His team will triage patients accordingly.
Doctors referring patients are asked to specify if open-access endoscopy may be appropriate when submitting their referral by email.
Our Endoscopy Services
Gastroscopy
During a gastroscopy, a surgeon uses a thin camera to inspect the oesophagus, stomach, and the first section of the small intestine. This procedure helps investigate issues such as reflux, nausea, unexplained anaemia, or upper abdominal pain, and may uncover ulcers or irritation within the lining.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a specialised endoscopy procedure used to examine the rectum and colon (large bowel). It is a key tool in screening for colorectal cancer, identifying and removing polyps, and investigating symptoms like persistent diarrhoea, bleeding, or unexplained changes in bowel habits. In Australia, surgeons perform over one million colonoscopies every year.
Want to start uncovering the cause of your symptoms and explore your treatment choices?
Your Endoscopy Cheltenham Questions Answered
When should I have an endoscopy?
Although the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program provides complimentary home testing for people aged 45 to 74, it’s important to see a doctor if you experience symptoms like abdominal pain, reflux, difficulty swallowing, rectal bleeding, bowel changes, or unexplained weight loss, as an endoscopy may be recommended.
How do I prepare for a gastroscopy?
Depending on your appointment time and any medical or dietary requirements, preparation instructions may vary. In most cases, patients are asked to avoid solid foods for at least six hours and clear liquids for two hours before the procedure. As you’ll receive sedation, please bring a responsible adult and organise a safe way home, as driving afterwards isn’t permitted.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will supply written guidance for your colonoscopy preparation. Thorough preparation is vital for clear visibility of the bowel and surrounding tissues. Depending on your case, you may need standard, extended, or Colonolytely bowel prep. Follow these directions precisely, come with a support person, and ensure you have transport home, as sedation prevents driving.
Are there any other procedure options?
Sometimes, your doctor might suggest alternative steps before proceeding with an endoscopy, including:
- Lower bowel examination (sigmoidoscopy)
- Stool test for hidden blood
- Colorectal DNA stool analysis
- Computed tomography (CT) colonography
- Barium X-ray examination
An endoscopy gives doctors a clear, real-time look inside the bowel and oesophagus, making it easier to detect inflammation, ulcers, or early signs of colorectal cancer. It also enables biopsies and polyp removal during the same procedure.
What are the risks and benefits of endoscopy?
Although complications from endoscopy are rare, they can include bleeding, perforation, or cardiorespiratory issues, with death being extremely uncommon. It’s important to remember that postponing or avoiding endoscopy may carry higher risks, as it can delay essential diagnosis and treatment recommended by your doctor.
What areas do you service?
Holmesglen Private Hospital is easily accessible to patients in:
Why Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam?
Endoscopy Specialist
One of the key advantages of endoscopy is its ability to detect and remove polyps or other abnormalities early. Removing and testing these growths helps reduce the risk that they will develop into cancer.
Rapid Access
Patients are usually seen within one week of referral, with open-access endoscopy helping to shorten waiting periods.
Quality and Accreditation
He delivers endoscopy services in accredited facilities meeting NSQHS standards and quality health service standards.
Our Location near Cheltenham
Make an Appointment at Our Endoscopy Centre Closest to You
From changes in digestion to concerns about colorectal cancer, symptoms affecting your bowel or stomach deserve attention. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam offers comprehensive endoscopy services in Cheltenham and regional Victoria, ensuring you don’t face long waiting times for assessment and clarity.
Arrange an appointment today to speak with the team about your symptoms, referral, and possible eligibility for open-access endoscopy.