Gastroscopy and colonoscopy in Germany

The best hospitals for gastroscopy and colonoscopy in Germany are listed below. The rank is based on multiple factors, including price, quality of the doctors, cost of treatment and the success rate from our user reviews.

Gastroscopy and colonoscopy

Gastroscopy and colonoscopy are medical procedures used to examine the interior lining of the digestive tract. They are both endoscopic procedures, meaning they involve the use of a flexible, lighted tube with a camera at the end (an endoscope) to visualize the internal structures.

Gastroscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD):
Purpose: Gastroscopy is used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
Procedure: During the procedure, the endoscope is passed through the mouth, down the esophagus, and into the stomach and duodenum. This allows the doctor to examine the lining of these organs for any abnormalities such as inflammation, ulcers, tumors, or bleeding.

Colonoscopy:
Purpose: Colonoscopy is used to examine the large intestine (colon) and the rectum.
Procedure: The endoscope is inserted through the anus and advanced through the entire length of the colon. This enables the doctor to visualize the lining of the colon and rectum. During the procedure, the doctor can also take biopsies, remove polyps, and perform other therapeutic interventions.

Common aspects of both procedures:
Preparation: Both gastroscopy and colonoscopy often require some degree of bowel preparation. This involves emptying the intestines to allow for better visualization during the procedure.
Sedation: Patients are usually given sedation or anesthesia to make them more comfortable during the procedures.
Risks: While both procedures are generally considered safe, they carry some risks, including bleeding, infection, and perforation. However, these complications are rare.

When is a gastroscopy or colonoscopy needed

Gastroscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD) and colonoscopy are diagnostic and therapeutic procedures that may be recommended by healthcare providers in various situations. Here are common reasons when these procedures might be needed:

Gastroscopy (EGD):

Upper Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
Persistent Heartburn: Gastroscopy can help assess the esophagus and stomach for signs of acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Difficulty Swallowing: It is used to investigate the causes of difficulty or pain while swallowing.

Upper Abdominal Pain:
Unexplained Abdominal Pain: Gastroscopy may be recommended if there are persistent or unexplained upper abdominal pains.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding:
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: It is used to identify and treat sources of bleeding in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum.

Unexplained Weight Loss:
Investigation of Weight Loss: If a person is experiencing unexplained weight loss, gastroscopy can be used to check for underlying causes.

Screening for Certain Conditions:
Screening for Barrett’s Esophagus: In some cases, gastroscopy may be recommended as part of the screening for Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

Colonoscopy:

Colorectal Cancer Screening:
Routine Screening: Colonoscopy is commonly used for routine colorectal cancer screening, especially in individuals over the age of 50.

Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
Changes in Bowel Habits: If there are persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, colonoscopy may be recommended.
Rectal Bleeding: It is used to investigate the cause of rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.
Abdominal Pain: Persistent abdominal pain, especially in the lower abdomen, may warrant a colonoscopy to check for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.

Polyp Detection and Removal:
Polyp Surveillance and Removal: Colonoscopy allows for the detection and removal of polyps, which are growths on the inner lining of the colon. Some polyps can progress to cancer over time, and their removal can help prevent colorectal cancer.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):
Diagnosis and Monitoring: Colonoscopy is often used to diagnose and monitor conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

Evaluation of Anemia:
Unexplained Anemia: If there is unexplained anemia, colonoscopy may be recommended to check for sources of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Costs for a gastroscopy and colonoscopy in Germany

The costs for a diagnostic gastroscopy and colonoscopy with biopsy in Germany can range between €1.300 and €1.680.

Best hospitals for gastroscopy and colonoscopy in Germany

Here are a few well-known hospitals in Germany that are recognized for their healthcare services:
University Hospital Frankfurt am Main.
University Hospital Berlin.
University Hospital Mainz.
University Hospital Heidelberg.
Nordwest Hospital Frankfurt.