• bronchoscopy - examines your airways
  • colonoscopy - examines your bowel
  • cystoscopy - examines the inside of your bladder
  • endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) – these test invove the use of x-rays as well as the endoscope to treat problems relating to the pancreatic and bile ducts
  • gastroscopy – examines your gullet, stomach and first part of the small intestine
  • sigmoidoscopy - examines the rectum and lower part of your bowel

We also use endoscopes to carry out more difficult treatments. For example, they may be used to:

  • remove gallstones
  • repair a bleeding area in the digestive system
  • remove abnormal growths from inside the bowel

Link to Endoscopy Patient Satisfaction Survey

When you receive your appointment, we'll send you some information about what to expect on the day of your procedure, how to prepare and what you need to bring. 

If you have any questions, worries or concerns about your appointment, you can contact us using one of the phone numbers in the box below. 

Most of our appointments are outpatient appointments, which means you will not have to stay in the hospital overnight. Depending on the procedure you’re having, appointments can take up to 4 hours:

  • colonoscopy - can take up to 45 minutes but expect to be in the unit most of the morning or afternoon
  • cystoscopy – this is a short test that usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes
  • gastroscopy – can take around 10 minutes but you may need to stay longer if you require a sedative
  • sigmoidoscopy – this test takes less than 15 minutes

  • ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) ** - This can sometimes be a more complex procedure, you should expect to remain in the endoscopy unit for the majority of the day, but this is dependent on your recovery.

Please be aware that the time given on your appointment letter is your admission time, not the time of your procedure.

As our team also deal with emergencies, these might take priority over your appointment and you may have to wait. If this happens, we’ll do our best to keep you informed but you can ask a member of the team if you’re concerned.

Throughout your appointment and procedure our specialist team will be there to support and care for you. Our team consists of:

  • consultant gastroenterologists
  • respiratory doctors
  • surgeons
  • specialist nurse endoscopists

Our staff work hard to make sure your privacy is protected at all times. This means that although your family or friends can come to the unit, they will not be allowed to go beyond the waiting room unless there is a medical reason for them to do so. Please do not be offended when they are asked to wait outside.

** These procedures are only available at Cumberland Infirmary. 

Read the latest results from the Endoscopy Unit Patient Satisfaction Survey 

To change or cancel an appointment

For appointments : 

01228 210430

If you have questions or concerns about your appointment or medication

Cumberland Infirmary

01228 814987

West Cumberland Hospital

01946 523061
 

Where to find us

Cumberland Infirmary

Ground floor

The Endoscopy Unit is located on the ground floor next to Costa. It is open Monday to Friday and some weekends from 8am to 7pm.
 

West Cumberland Hospital

Ground floor

The Endoscopy Unit is located on the ground floor next to the outpatient department. It is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 7pm.