Dr Ali Rizvi - General, Endocrine & Breast Oncoplastic Surgeon
Endoscopy surgery in Sydney is a frontline tool for diagnosing and treating digestive conditions. Learn more about our gastroscopy and colonoscopy services offered by Dr Ali Rizvi
Endoscopy is a frontline tool for diagnosing and treating many digestive problems. It offers:
Direct examination of the digestive tract
Biopsies for diagnosis
Control of bleeding
Polyp removal
Stricture dilation
All of this can often be done in a single session with minimal downtime.
This guide explains:
What each procedure is for
Treatments that can be done during endoscopy
How to prepare
What recovery looks like
Red flag symptoms that need urgent attention
Modern endoscopy helps patients return to normal activities quickly, with fewer repeat procedures.
Gastroscopy is performed as part of our Sydney endoscopy services.
Gastroscopy examines the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum with a thin, flexible camera. Sedation is usually given to ensure comfort.
Common reasons for gastroscopy:
Persistent reflux or heartburn
Upper abdominal pain
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Iron-deficiency anaemia
Suspected ulcers
Coeliac disease testing
Barrett’s oesophagus monitoring
What can be done during gastroscopy:
Take biopsies (for infection, inflammation, or coeliac disease)
Stretch narrowed areas of the oesophagus (dilation)
Stop bleeding using injection, heat, or clips
Remove swallowed foreign objects (selected cases)
Fast for the recommended period
Arrange for someone to escort you home after sedation
Most patients return to light activity the same day
A soft diet may be advised after dilation
Colonoscopy examines the entire colon, sometimes the end of the small bowel.
When colonoscopy is recommended:
Positive bowel cancer screening
Rectal bleeding or mucus
Change in bowel habits
Iron-deficiency anaemia
Known polyps
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) assessment
Post-treatment surveillance
Treatments during colonoscopy:
Remove polyps (polypectomy)
Remove larger/flat lesions (EMR – Endoscopic Mucosal Resection)
Apply clips to control bleeding
Mark sites with tattoos for future reference
Removing polyps reduces the risk of colorectal cancer.
Bowel preparation matters:
Clear-fluid diet as instructed
Split-dose laxatives for best results
Adjust certain medications (e.g. blood thinners, diabetes meds)
Good preparation improves detection, safety and reduces the need for repeat procedures.
This test examines the rectum and lower colon.
Used for:
Left-sided bleeding or mucus
Pain or discomfort
Known proctitis or left-sided colitis
Benefits:
Usually simpler prep (enema or light laxatives)
Light sedation is enough
Quick diagnosis and treatment
Possible treatments:
Targeted biopsies
Small polyp removal
Bleeding control
If right-sided disease is suspected, a full colonoscopy may be needed.
For internal haemorrhoids (grade II–III), banding is a quick outpatient option.
How it works:
Small rubber bands are placed at the base of the haemorrhoid
The tissue shrinks and falls away in days
Multiple sessions may be needed for larger haemorrhoids
Recovery:
Return to normal activity quickly
Possible mild spotting around day 7–10
Low risks of bleeding or infection
Aftercare includes:
Pain relief as required
Stool softeners
Good hygiene practices
For external or advanced haemorrhoids, surgery may be recommended.
Sedation is tailored to each patient. Vital signs are monitored throughout.
What to expect:
Comfortable procedure with same-day discharge
Do not drive or sign legal documents until the next day
Sedation allows doctors to complete treatment (biopsy, polyp removal, dilation) in one session
If you are concerned about discomfort, see our guide on is endoscopy painful.
A preliminary report is usually given immediately
Biopsy and polyp results follow in writing
Patients receive clear instructions on:
Surveillance intervals
Diet and lifestyle changes
Medication adjustments
See your doctor promptly if you have:
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent vomiting
Black stools or rectal bleeding
Worsening swallowing difficulties
Iron-deficiency anaemia
Early endoscopy allows diagnosis and treatment in the same session, often preventing serious complications.
Endoscopy offers safe, effective diagnosis and treatment for many gastrointestinal conditions.
With clear preparation, safe sedation, and structured follow-up, patients benefit from:
Faster recovery
Fewer repeat procedures
Confidence in their care
Modern endoscopy combines precision, safety and convenience so you can get answers and treatment — all in one visit.
If you have symptoms that require investigation, Dr Ali Rizvi offers comprehensive consultations to determine whether an endoscopy or colonoscopy is appropriate. You’ll receive a thorough assessment, clear explanations, and a personalised treatment plan designed around your health needs.
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