Gastroscopy and colonoscopy services for investigating symptoms, screening and assessing the digestive tract. St Mary's provides consultation and endoscopy pathways with Dr Frank Farrugia, our resident Internal Medicine Specialist.
Endoscopy allows the digestive tract to be examined using a flexible camera. The procedure recommended depends on the symptoms or screening question and which part of the digestive system needs to be assessed.
A gastroscopy examines the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine. It may be recommended for symptoms such as persistent reflux, swallowing difficulty, upper abdominal symptoms or when a clinician needs to investigate inflammation, ulcers or other abnormalities.
Explore Gastroscopy →
A colonoscopy examines the colon and rectum. It can be used to investigate bowel symptoms, assess people with relevant risk factors and detect abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation or other changes. Tissue samples or polyps may be dealt with during the procedure where appropriate.
Explore Colonoscopy →Your doctor considers your symptoms, age, medical and family history, previous investigations and relevant risk factors before recommending an endoscopic procedure.
Gastroscopy may be used when investigating persistent heartburn or reflux, upper abdominal symptoms, nausea, swallowing difficulty or suspected upper gastrointestinal disease.
Colonoscopy may form part of the investigation of persistent changes in bowel habit, rectal bleeding or other lower gastrointestinal symptoms when clinically indicated.
Colonoscopy is also used in colorectal cancer screening and surveillance pathways. The appropriate timing depends on age, findings, family history and individual risk.
Preparation and recovery differ between gastroscopy and colonoscopy. You will receive procedure-specific instructions, particularly regarding fasting, bowel preparation, medication and sedation.
Discuss symptoms, medical history, medicines and why an endoscopy may be appropriate.
Gastroscopy usually requires fasting. Colonoscopy requires bowel preparation. Follow the exact instructions supplied for your procedure.
The doctor examines the relevant digestive tract. Biopsies or other interventions may be performed where clinically indicated.
Initial findings may be discussed after the procedure. Laboratory results from biopsies take longer and follow-up depends on the findings.
Current prices published by St Mary's Clinic for gastroscopy and colonoscopy. Additional treatment or investigations beyond those listed may affect the final cost.
Consultation with the resident Internal Medicine Specialist.
The current published procedure fee for either gastroscopy or colonoscopy.
Current published biopsy testing fee where a biopsy is clinically required.
Preparation is essential for a useful and safe examination. The instructions for gastroscopy and colonoscopy are different, so follow the instructions issued for your specific appointment.
The current St Mary's gastroscopy guidance advises fasting before the procedure. Your appointment instructions will specify exactly when to stop food and fluids.
Colonoscopy requires bowel cleansing and dietary preparation so the colon can be examined adequately. Follow the prescribed bowel-preparation schedule exactly.
Provide a complete medication and allergy history, including anticoagulants, antiplatelet medicines and diabetes medication. Do not stop prescribed medication on your own; follow the instructions of the clinician responsible for your care.
MD, MRCP, M.Sc Health Sciences · Internal Medicine Specialist
Dr Frank Farrugia is the resident Internal Medicine Specialist listed by St Mary's Clinic for its gastroscopy and colonoscopy services. Consultation is used to assess symptoms, review relevant medical history and determine the appropriate endoscopy pathway.
General information about endoscopy. Your own preparation and discharge instructions should always take priority.
Gastroscopy examines the upper digestive tract through the mouth, including the oesophagus and stomach. Colonoscopy examines the colon and rectum through the lower gastrointestinal tract.
The current St Mary's pages describe gastroscopy as typically taking around 15–30 minutes and colonoscopy around 30–45 minutes. Allow additional time for admission, preparation and recovery, particularly if sedation is used.
Yes. Small tissue samples can be taken when clinically appropriate. A biopsy does not automatically mean that cancer is suspected; tissue sampling is used for several diagnostic reasons.
Polyps may be removed during colonoscopy where appropriate. What can be performed during the procedure depends on the finding, its size and location, and the clinical circumstances.
Do not stop prescribed medication by yourself. Tell the clinical team about all regular medicines, particularly blood thinners, antiplatelet medicines and diabetes treatment, and follow the medication instructions given for your procedure.
The doctor may be able to discuss the visual findings after the procedure. If tissue samples are taken, the laboratory result will take additional time and follow-up will depend on the findings.
St Mary's Medical Clinic · 9/11 Triq il-Barrieri, Mosta MST 3250, Malta · Mon–Fri 8:00am–6:00pm · Sat 8:00am–1:00pm