Upper GI & hernia care
Fast access to trusted specialists for oesophagus, stomach, and hernia issues – helping you get clarity, comfort, and care without delay.
Free Booking Protection
If the specialist you book isn’t suitable for your needs, we’ll cover a rebooking to someone who is. See our T&Cs for more.
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Free Booking Protection
If the specialist you book isn’t suitable for your needs, we’ll cover a rebooking to someone who is. See our T&Cs for more.
From reflux to hernias – expert care for your upper digestive system
Upper GI conditions affect the upper part of your digestive system, including the oesophagus, stomach. Endoscopy (gastroscopy) is often the best way to see exactly what’s going on, helping identify issues like reflux, ulcers, or inflammation. Hernias can also develop in this area or lower down in the abdomen, and with many now treated privately, patients are choosing faster access and quicker recovery. Whether it’s heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or a noticeable bulge, early assessment helps you find clarity and relief sooner.
Common upper GI conditions we treat
Acid reflux (GORD)
When stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus, causing burning and irritation.
Hiatus hernia
This is where part of the stomach pushes up into the chest cavity through the diaphragm – worsening conditions such as reflux and causing discomfort.
Oesophagitis & ulcers
Inflammation or sores (ulcers) in the lining of the oesophagus or stomach, often caused by acid reflux or infection.
Barrett’s oesophagus
A long-term change that occurs in the oesophagus lining due to prolonged exposure to stomach acid. It carries a small increased risk of oesophageal cancer, so regular monitoring (endoscopic surveillance) is recommended.
Oesophageal strictures
A narrowing of the oesophagus, due to scarring or inflammation, that causes difficulty swallowing.
Weight loss surgery
Weight loss (bariatric) surgery helps support long-term health by addressing obesity and its related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, high blood pressure and joint pain.
What our patients say about our specialists
The surgery all went very well - I felt fortunate to benefit from robotic surgery and I was pleased to not need a stoma. The information from Mr Panteleimonitis and the team was all very clear, caring and helpful in guiding me through the treatment needed and likely outcomes. Despite some changes in my habits, I have recovered very well overall and I have been able to return to work full time in quite a demanding role. I am also grateful for the ongoing support from the colerectal nurses and a clearly structured surveillance schedule. I offer my heartfelt thanks for my excellent treatment.
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisVery friendly, helpfull, informative
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisMr Simon Radley was excellent. He listened carefully, multitasked with great skill and his questions were based on his extensive experience. A thorough professional. Thank you
— Patient of Simon RadleyFelt well looked after
— Patient of Jitesh ParmarHis approach from the first time I met him could not have been better. His manner is warm and easy which makes one feel comfortable and relaxed. He explains all that is necessary in detail which gives huge confidence and trust. My experience regarding his care was excellent. I cannot imagine consultants come any better. I would fully recommend him.
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonMr Parmar made me feel at ease from my first consultation to my last consultation, he explain every clearly to me ,.
— Patient of Jitesh ParmarThe whole experience exceeded my expectations, Bobby Dasari and the team in The Harborne Hospital have been incredible throughout. Having my first operation was daunting and lots of unknown but Bobby Dasari explained all of it to me clearly and put my mind at ease. I am now being well supported throughout my recovery. Thank you A S.
— Patient of Bobby DasariAppointment was on time , explained treatment plan clearly and understandable,,
— Patient of Simon RadleyVery clear, spoke with kindness
— Patient of Melanie FieldI have been under Mr Radley since November 2019 who treated me for bowel cancer Excellent treatment , extremely professional . A wonderful surgeon and gentleman
— Patient of Simon RadleyThe surgery all went very well - I felt fortunate to benefit from robotic surgery and I was pleased to not need a stoma. The information from Mr Panteleimonitis and the team was all very clear, caring and helpful in guiding me through the treatment needed and likely outcomes. Despite some changes in my habits, I have recovered very well overall and I have been able to return to work full time in quite a demanding role. I am also grateful for the ongoing support from the colerectal nurses and a clearly structured surveillance schedule. I offer my heartfelt thanks for my excellent treatment.
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisVery friendly, helpfull, informative
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisMr Simon Radley was excellent. He listened carefully, multitasked with great skill and his questions were based on his extensive experience. A thorough professional. Thank you
— Patient of Simon RadleyFelt well looked after
— Patient of Jitesh ParmarHis approach from the first time I met him could not have been better. His manner is warm and easy which makes one feel comfortable and relaxed. He explains all that is necessary in detail which gives huge confidence and trust. My experience regarding his care was excellent. I cannot imagine consultants come any better. I would fully recommend him.
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonMr Parmar made me feel at ease from my first consultation to my last consultation, he explain every clearly to me ,.
— Patient of Jitesh ParmarThe whole experience exceeded my expectations, Bobby Dasari and the team in The Harborne Hospital have been incredible throughout. Having my first operation was daunting and lots of unknown but Bobby Dasari explained all of it to me clearly and put my mind at ease. I am now being well supported throughout my recovery. Thank you A S.
— Patient of Bobby DasariAppointment was on time , explained treatment plan clearly and understandable,,
— Patient of Simon RadleyVery clear, spoke with kindness
— Patient of Melanie FieldI have been under Mr Radley since November 2019 who treated me for bowel cancer Excellent treatment , extremely professional . A wonderful surgeon and gentleman
— Patient of Simon RadleyMeet the experts
- JP
Mr Jitesh Parmar
General Surgery
MBBS, MD, FRCS
Available from 25/03/2026Mr Jitesh Parmar is a Consultant Laparoscopic, Bariatric and Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeon providing private care at Spire Little Aston Hospital (Sutton Coldfield). He offers weight-loss surgery, anti-reflux procedures and keyhole gallbladder and hernia operations. His multidisciplinary approach is highly structured yet encouraging, supporting people before and after surgery with clear explanations, realistic expectations and long-term follow-up focused on sustainable health changes.
Specialises in 5 procedures
- Gallbladder Surgery
- Umbilical Hernia Repair
- Lipoma Removal
- Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
Spire Little Aston4.97 • 100 Reviews28 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 5199159Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - MF
Miss Melanie Field
General Surgery
MBChB, MD, MMedEd
Miss Melanie Field is a Consultant Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham) and The Priory Hospital (Birmingham). She specialises in complex parathyroid surgery and performs a high number of parathyroid operations each year, as well as surgery for kidney failure and transplant-related problems. Known for her clear, thorough explanations, she plans imaging and surgery closely with the wider team, so care feels safe and well-coordinated.
The Priory Hospital4.98 • 17 Reviews24 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6048883Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - SP
Mr Sofoklis Panteleimonitis
Colorectal, General Surgery
MBChB, BSc, MRes, MD, FRCS
Mr Sofoklis Panteleimonitis is a Consultant Colorectal Surgeon providing private care at Spire Little Aston Hospital (Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham). He specialises in advanced robotic and minimally invasive surgery for colon and rectal cancer, benign colorectal conditions and complex hernias. He offers precise, evidence-based treatment, explaining options clearly and supporting patients with personalised, patient-centred care throughout their surgical journey.
Spire Little Aston4.96 • 16 Reviews18 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 7013734Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - JB
Mr James Barnes
General Surgery
BSc, MBChB, DPhil, FRCS
Mr James Barnes is a Consultant General Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham) and The Priory Hospital (Birmingham). He specialises in renal transplantation, complex dialysis access and parathyroid surgery, carrying out many parathyroid operations each year. Patients value his honest advice and the way he plans surgery around their wider health and long-term goals.
The Priory HospitalThe Harborne Hospital4.97 • 12 Reviews19 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6160449Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - NC
Mr Nikolaos Chatzizacharias
Hepatobilliary, General Surgery
MD, PhD, FRCS, FRCS (Glasg), FACS
Available from 23/03/2026Mr Nikolaos Chatzizacharias is a Consultant Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) and General Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham) and The Priory Hospital (Birmingham). He treats gallbladder disease, liver and bile duct problems and complex pancreatic conditions using open, laparoscopic and robotic techniques. He explains diagnoses and treatment choices clearly, aiming for safe surgery, coordinated care and strong long-term outcomes that feel reassuring and well supported.
Specialises in 3 procedures
- Gallbladder Surgery
- Incisional Hernia Repair
- Umbilical Hernia Repair
BirminghamThe Harborne Hospital4.94 • 12 Reviews22 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6165632Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - SW
Mr Stephen Ward
Colorectal, General Surgery
BSc (Hons), MB BS, PhD, FRCS
Available from 20/03/2026Mr Stephen Ward is a Consultant Colorectal Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham) and The Priory Hospital (Birmingham). He specialises in keyhole surgery for bowel cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, hernias and anal fistula disease. His practice offers clear explanations, modern techniques and carefully coordinated care so people feel informed, reassured and supported throughout treatment and follow up.
Specialises in 5 procedures
- Incisional Hernia Repair
- Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
- Open Inguinal Hernia Repair
- Recurrent Incisional Hernia Repair
The Harborne HospitalThe Priory Hospital5.00 • 9 Reviews23 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6075264Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - MC
Ms Melissa Cunha
General Surgery, Colorectal
MD, PhD, FRCS
Miss Melissa Cunha is a Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham). She treats colorectal cancer, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and benign bowel problems using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. She also manages rectal bleeding and long-standing bowel changes. Known for her warm, clear manner, she explains tests and treatment options simply, so care feels safe and well supported.
The Harborne HospitalThe Priory Hospital5.00 • 1 Review26 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6038405Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - KW
Mr Kasun Wanigasooriya
General Surgery, Colorectal
MBChB, PGcert, MBA, PhD, FRCS
Mr Kasun Wanigasooriya is a Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon providing private care at The Meriden Hospital (Coventry). He specialises in colorectal cancer and minimally invasive (keyhole) surgery, offering expert assessment and treatment for bowel cancer, polyps, haemorrhoids and hernias. He is known for clear communication and a patient-centred approach, helping people feel informed and supported throughout investigation and treatment.
16 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 7071800Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included