This service or treatment is generally covered by most health insurance policies. You are responsible for checking your insurance policy cover, and you may need a referral letter. Check which insurance companies are covered.
Functional Gut Assessment
A functional gut assessment is needed when problems arise with your stomach and intestine and can involve various tests to investigate. Please contact the centre to discuss pricing.
02036532009
What is a functional gut assessment?
A functional gut assessment is needed when problems arise with your stomach and intestine. Symptoms of gut related problems can range from nearly unnoticeable to severe. At OneWelbeck we offer a range of tests, and your physician will advise you on what the best course of action is for your specific needs.
What are the kinds of tests available for assessing the gut?
There are various tests available at OneWelbeck for assessing the gut, including the following:
Endoscopy (sigmoidoscopy)
During an endoscopy, the inside of your rectum is examined using a long, thin flexible tube with a light and video camera at the end. Images can also be taken of the inside of your body. Please note: this service is not self referral.
Anal Manometry
Anal manometry helps to assess how well the muscles and nerves in and around your rectum are working. The test uses a device that looks like a small thermometer with a balloon attached to the end. It’s inserted into your rectum and the balloon is inflated. It may feel unusual, but it’s not uncomfortable or painful. The device is attached to a machine, which measures pressure readings taken from the balloon.
You’ll be asked to squeeze, relax and push your rectum muscles at certain times. You may also be asked to push the balloon out of your rectum in the same way you push out a stool. The pressure-measuring machine gives an idea of how well your muscles are working. This test is especially useful for those who have experienced faecal incontinence, constipation or prior to surgery in the pelvic floor region. Please note: this service requires a consultation prior to investigation.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound scan can be used to create a detailed picture of the inside of your anus. Ultrasound scans are particularly useful in detecting underlying damage to the sphincter muscles. Please note, this service is only available by referral and is not self referral.
Defecography
Defecography is a test used to study how you pass stools. It can also be useful in detecting signs of obstruction or prolapse that haven’t been discovered during a rectal examination.
During this test, a liquid called barium is placed into your rectum. The barium helps make it easier to highlight problems using an X-ray. Once the barium is in place, you’ll be asked to pass stools in the usual way while scans are taken. Please note, this service requires a consultation and is only available by referral.
Test / diagnostic pricing
Overview
Average time of test
15 minutes - 2 hours depending on test
Any prep needed?
Bowel preparation or enema depending on test
Test / diagnostic pricing
Please contact the centre to discuss pricing.
Health Insurance
Self-Pay Available
This treatment is available for self-paying users. If you would like to see more information on pricing visit our pricing and payments page.
Next Day Availability
We usually have next day availability for this service, please call us to check availability.