The Oaks Hospital · Colchester, Essex
Private Colonoscopy in Colchester
Dr Thines Karunakaran performs diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy at The Oaks Hospital in Colchester. The consultant who assesses you is the one who carries out your procedure and discusses your results. He is accredited by the Joint Advisory Group on GI Endoscopy (JAG) in bowel cancer screening colonoscopy, full colonoscopy, gastroscopy and ERCP, and is a JAG-accredited endoscopy trainer.
Dr Thines Karunakaran
Consultant Gastroenterologist
Reasons for a colonoscopy
A colonoscopy examines the whole large bowel with a thin flexible camera, and allows polyps to be removed and biopsies taken at the same time. It is commonly recommended for:
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- A persistent change in bowel habit
- Unexplained abdominal pain or bloating
- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Unexplained weight loss
- Suspected or known inflammatory bowel disease
- Investigating symptoms that could indicate bowel cancer, or a family history of bowel cancer
- Surveillance after previous polyps
What happens on the day
You will be admitted, checked by the nursing team and see Dr Karunakaran to go through consent and sedation options. The examination itself takes 20–40 minutes, after which you rest in recovery and are given your findings before going home.
Polyp removal and biopsies
Polyps found during the examination can usually be removed there and then, which reduces future bowel cancer risk. Small tissue samples may also be taken and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Rapid investigation when cancer needs to be excluded
Many people choose a private colonoscopy because they want symptoms such as rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habit, unexplained weight loss or iron-deficiency anaemia investigated quickly. Most of the time no cancer is found — but when it matters, a prompt, direct examination of the bowel is the safest way to get a definite answer, and any findings are discussed with you straight away.
JAG-accredited colonoscopist
Dr Karunakaran holds accreditation from the Joint Advisory Group on GI Endoscopy (JAG) in bowel cancer screening colonoscopy, full colonoscopy, gastroscopy and ERCP, and is a JAG-accredited endoscopy trainer, teaching other endoscopists. JAG accreditation is the recognised UK quality standard for endoscopy, reflecting independently assessed competence in performing colonoscopy safely and thoroughly.
Insured and self-pay
Recognised by insurers including Bupa (Fee Assured), AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, WPA, Healix, Allianz, Aetna International, The Exeter and Benenden Health. Self-pay packages are available and quoted in advance.
Colonoscopy FAQs
How much does a private colonoscopy cost in Colchester?+
Self-pay packages at The Oaks Hospital usually cover the procedure, sedation, nursing care and any biopsies taken, and are quoted before you book. If you are insured with Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality, WPA, Healix, Allianz, Aetna International, The Exeter or Benenden Health, check your policy and obtain authorisation before the test.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?+
You will be given a bowel preparation drink to take the day before, along with written instructions on diet and which medicines to pause. A clear bowel is essential for an accurate examination, so following the instructions closely matters more than anything else you do on the day.
Is a colonoscopy painful?+
Most patients describe cramping or pressure rather than pain. Sedation and pain relief are routinely offered, and Entonox (gas and air) is also available. Dr Karunakaran will discuss the options with you before the procedure.
How long does a colonoscopy take?+
The examination usually takes 20–40 minutes, with additional time for preparation and recovery. Allow around half a day at the hospital in total, and arrange for someone to take you home if you choose sedation.
Further information
Arrange a colonoscopy in Colchester
GP referrals and self-referrals welcome · Rapid appointments at The Oaks Hospital, Colchester.