Endoscopy in Melbourne

A colonoscopy examines the lower digestive tract, specifically the large intestine (colon) and rectum, using a flexible instrument inserted through the rectum. A gastroscopy examines the upper digestive tract, including the oesophagus, stomach, and first part of the small bowel (duodenum), using a flexible instrument passed through the mouth. They investigate different parts of the gastrointestinal system and are not interchangeable. Some patients require both procedures, and where clinically appropriate, they can be performed on the same day under a single episode of sedation.

A GP referral is required to book an initial consultation at Specialist Surgical Group. A standard referral is valid for 12 months and entitles you to a Medicare rebate on your consultation fee. If you are unsure which procedure you need, your GP can guide you, or we will assess this at your first appointment and recommend the most appropriate endoscopy for your circumstances.

The cost depends on the type of procedure, your private health insurance, and the complexity of the examination. Both colonoscopy and gastroscopy are Medicare-eligible procedures when performed for an appropriate clinical indication. For privately insured patients with suitable hospital cover, out-of-pocket costs are often low.

For self-funded patients, indicative costs after the Medicare rebate typically range from $800 to $1,800 for gastroscopy and $1,500 to $2,500 for colonoscopy, depending on whether therapeutic interventions are performed. Your specific out-of-pocket costs will be confirmed in writing before your procedure. We recommend contacting your health fund before your appointment to confirm your entitlements.

Colonoscopy and gastroscopy attract Medicare rebates when performed for an appropriate clinical indication, such as bowel cancer screening, investigation of symptoms, or surveillance of a known condition. Relevant Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item numbers apply depending on the procedure and whether it is diagnostic or therapeutic. Private health insurance typically covers the hospital and anaesthesia component, subject to your level of cover and any applicable waiting periods. We will confirm which MBS items apply to your case at your consultation.

Yes. Both colonoscopy and gastroscopy are performed under conscious sedation administered through an intravenous line, which keeps you relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. You will be largely unaware of the examination while still being able to respond to instructions. General anaesthesia is used in specific circumstances, such as for complex therapeutic procedures. Because sedation affects your reflexes, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home and should avoid driving or operating machinery for the rest of the day.

A gastroscopy typically takes 15-30 minutes. A colonoscopy typically takes 30-45 minutes, though this may be longer if polyps are removed or other interventions are performed. Including admission, preparation, the procedure itself, and recovery from sedation, you should plan to be at the facility for approximately 2-3 hours for a gastroscopy and 3-4 hours for a colonoscopy. Same-day combined procedures will require additional time.

Preparation differs between the two procedures. For a gastroscopy, you will need to fast from solid food and milk for at least 6 hours before the procedure, with clear fluids generally permitted up to 2 hours beforehand. No bowel preparation is required.

For a colonoscopy, you will follow a low-fibre or clear-liquid diet for 1-2 days before the procedure and take a prescribed bowel-preparation solution to completely clear your colon. Detailed written instructions for whichever procedure you are having will be provided at your consultation, including guidance on managing any regular medications.

Yes, where clinically appropriate, both procedures can be performed on the same day under a single sedation episode. This avoids the need for separate fasting, preparation, and recovery periods. We will advise whether a combined examination is suitable for your circumstances at your initial consultation.

Findings visible during the examination, such as the presence and appearance of polyps or any obvious abnormalities, will be discussed with you before you leave the facility. If biopsies or tissue samples were taken for pathological analysis, complete results are typically available within 7-10 days. We will contact you with the results and discuss any recommended follow-up, further treatment, or surveillance schedule.

Frequency depends on the type of endoscopy, your individual risk profile, and the findings of your most recent examination. For colonoscopy, average-risk individuals with a normal result can typically wait 10 years before their next screening examination. If polyps are found, your surveillance interval will depend on their number, size, and pathology. For gastroscopy, surveillance intervals for conditions such as Barrett’s oesophagus are determined by the degree of any dysplasia present. We will provide a personalised recommendation based on your specific findings and clinical history.