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
There are some people you meet in life who you will never forget, and Mr Sofoklis Panteleimonitis is one of those people. From the very beginning, he treated me with such kindness, compassion and respect. Going through cancer and major surgery was one of the most frightening and difficult experiences of my life, but I always felt that I was in the safest possible hands with him. Mr Panteleimonitis is incredibly knowledgeable and professional, but what meant just as much to me was the human side of the care he gave me. He spoke to me with kindness, listened to me, reassured me and made me feel that I mattered as a person, not simply as a patient. My surgery was major and complex, and I will never forget what he did for me. When you are the person lying in that hospital bed, frightened and putting your life into somebody else’s hands, that level of skill, care and compassion means more than words can really express. He treated me fantastically throughout my care and gave me confidence during a time when I felt incredibly vulnerable. To me, Mr Panteleimonitis is a true hero. I will always be grateful for his skill, dedication, compassion and for the care he showed me and my family during such a difficult chapter of my life. Thank you simply does not feel enough, but I will carry an enormous amount of gratitude for him for the rest of my life. I could not recommend Mr Sofoklis Panteleimonitis more highly.
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisVery helpful, clear explanations and felt in safe experienced hands.
— Patient of Melanie FieldMy operation and after could not have better. Mr Radley explained everything perfectly and treat me with upmost respect.
— Patient of Simon RadleyMr Kasun was kind, professional, gave a very clear explanation of everything that was going to happen and I felt safe in his hands. He is extremely diligent and goes above and beyond from what you would expect from a very busy surgeon with a lot of patients. I cannot speak more highly of him.
— Patient of Kasun WanigasooriyaMr Panteleimonitis Consultant colorectal and genetal surgeon was very professional throughout my experience as a patient under his care at Good Hope Hospital and Solihull Hospital. I felt completely cared for from the outset of my contact with Mr Ponteleimonitis given the way in which he explained the outcome of tests undertaken by the hospital leading to my prognosis. I was given his reassurance that the process would be straightforward and not complicated given his observation of his findings. He explained in the presence of a Clinical Nurse what the whole process of care would entail, when and where and for how long - which also gave me and my husband time to ask relevant questions where necessary re my care and outcomes during and following surgery. Given the fact I was put at ease throughout the whole process I feel that this aided my speedy recovery and I remained upbeat throughout. I felt well prepared for surgery and felt well cared for afterards by all care staff. I also only remained in hospital for the number of days stated by Mr Panteleimonitis which was also a demonstration of the care he said I would receive, and expect which I feel was exceptional given my speedy recovery where I continued to remain upbeat throughout the whole process right up until my next appointment with him 4 weeks after discharge from hospital. Mr Panteleimonitis people skills and care was exceptional which enabled me to remain at ease throughout the whole process of my care which I thanked him for.
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisExcellent surgeon. Very professional, pleasant and helpful., I have nothing but praise for the treatment that I have received from him.
— Patient of Simon RadleyThe surgeon took the time to explain the procedure, the options and the outcomes throughout the process including the risks
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisMr Radley listened to my concerns and was very kind and professional in explaining the options available to me. A very likeable gentleman who made me feel at ease.
— Patient of Simon RadleyMy experience was excellent, I was really pleased to have Mel as my surgeon
— Patient of Melanie FieldI saw Mr Dasari as an emergency private patient. Within the space of 10 days, I had gone from being 100% fit and healthy to being diagnosed with a very large tumour on my liver. We, as a family,were in a state of complete shock. He demonstrated a kind and caring manner, and spoke to us in a way which provided us with better clarity and insight of the situation we find ourselves in. He also advised me to go straight to A&E, something I was completely opposed to. However that advice turned out to be absolutely the right step for me at that point in time.
— Patient of Bobby DasariThere are some people you meet in life who you will never forget, and Mr Sofoklis Panteleimonitis is one of those people. From the very beginning, he treated me with such kindness, compassion and respect. Going through cancer and major surgery was one of the most frightening and difficult experiences of my life, but I always felt that I was in the safest possible hands with him. Mr Panteleimonitis is incredibly knowledgeable and professional, but what meant just as much to me was the human side of the care he gave me. He spoke to me with kindness, listened to me, reassured me and made me feel that I mattered as a person, not simply as a patient. My surgery was major and complex, and I will never forget what he did for me. When you are the person lying in that hospital bed, frightened and putting your life into somebody else’s hands, that level of skill, care and compassion means more than words can really express. He treated me fantastically throughout my care and gave me confidence during a time when I felt incredibly vulnerable. To me, Mr Panteleimonitis is a true hero. I will always be grateful for his skill, dedication, compassion and for the care he showed me and my family during such a difficult chapter of my life. Thank you simply does not feel enough, but I will carry an enormous amount of gratitude for him for the rest of my life. I could not recommend Mr Sofoklis Panteleimonitis more highly.
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisVery helpful, clear explanations and felt in safe experienced hands.
— Patient of Melanie FieldMy operation and after could not have better. Mr Radley explained everything perfectly and treat me with upmost respect.
— Patient of Simon RadleyMr Kasun was kind, professional, gave a very clear explanation of everything that was going to happen and I felt safe in his hands. He is extremely diligent and goes above and beyond from what you would expect from a very busy surgeon with a lot of patients. I cannot speak more highly of him.
— Patient of Kasun WanigasooriyaMr Panteleimonitis Consultant colorectal and genetal surgeon was very professional throughout my experience as a patient under his care at Good Hope Hospital and Solihull Hospital. I felt completely cared for from the outset of my contact with Mr Ponteleimonitis given the way in which he explained the outcome of tests undertaken by the hospital leading to my prognosis. I was given his reassurance that the process would be straightforward and not complicated given his observation of his findings. He explained in the presence of a Clinical Nurse what the whole process of care would entail, when and where and for how long - which also gave me and my husband time to ask relevant questions where necessary re my care and outcomes during and following surgery. Given the fact I was put at ease throughout the whole process I feel that this aided my speedy recovery and I remained upbeat throughout. I felt well prepared for surgery and felt well cared for afterards by all care staff. I also only remained in hospital for the number of days stated by Mr Panteleimonitis which was also a demonstration of the care he said I would receive, and expect which I feel was exceptional given my speedy recovery where I continued to remain upbeat throughout the whole process right up until my next appointment with him 4 weeks after discharge from hospital. Mr Panteleimonitis people skills and care was exceptional which enabled me to remain at ease throughout the whole process of my care which I thanked him for.
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisExcellent surgeon. Very professional, pleasant and helpful., I have nothing but praise for the treatment that I have received from him.
— Patient of Simon RadleyThe surgeon took the time to explain the procedure, the options and the outcomes throughout the process including the risks
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisMr Radley listened to my concerns and was very kind and professional in explaining the options available to me. A very likeable gentleman who made me feel at ease.
— Patient of Simon RadleyMy experience was excellent, I was really pleased to have Mel as my surgeon
— Patient of Melanie FieldI saw Mr Dasari as an emergency private patient. Within the space of 10 days, I had gone from being 100% fit and healthy to being diagnosed with a very large tumour on my liver. We, as a family,were in a state of complete shock. He demonstrated a kind and caring manner, and spoke to us in a way which provided us with better clarity and insight of the situation we find ourselves in. He also advised me to go straight to A&E, something I was completely opposed to. However that advice turned out to be absolutely the right step for me at that point in time.
— Patient of Bobby DasariMeet the experts
- MF
Miss Melanie Field
General Surgery
MBChB, MD, MMedEd
Available from 02/10/2026Miss 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.
BirminghamThe Priory Hospital4.99 • 29 Reviews24 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6048883Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - SP
Mr Sofoklis Panteleimonitis
Colorectal, General Surgery
MBChB, BSc, MRes, MD, FRCS
Available from 22/09/2026Mr 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.
Sutton Coldfield & BirminghamSpire Little AstonThe Harborne Hospital4.98 • 29 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.
BirminghamThe Priory HospitalThe Harborne Hospital4.98 • 19 Reviews19 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6160449Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - SW
Mr Stephen Ward
Colorectal, General Surgery
BSc (Hons), MB BS, PhD, FRCS
Available from 25/09/2026Mr 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
BirminghamThe Harborne HospitalThe Priory Hospital5.00 • 17 Reviews23 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6075264Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - NC
Mr Nikolaos Chatzizacharias
Hepatobilliary, General Surgery
MD, PhD, FRCS, FRCS (Glasg), FACS
Available from 21/09/2026Mr 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 Hospital4.96 • 15 Reviews22 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6165632Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - KW
Mr Kasun Wanigasooriya
General Surgery, Colorectal
MBChB, PGcert, MBA, PhD, FRCS
Available from 01/10/2026Mr 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.
Specialises in 5 procedures
- Banding of Haemorrhoids
- Open Inguinal Hernia Repair
- Incisional Hernia Repair
- Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
CoventryThe Meriden Hospital5.00 • 12 Reviews16 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 7071800Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - NS
Professor Neil Sharma
General Surgery, ENT
MBChB PhD FRCS (ORL HNS)
Available from 22/10/2026Professor Neil Sharma is a Consultant ENT and Head and Neck Surgeon providing private care at The Priory Hospital (Birmingham). He treats ear, nose and throat problems, thyroid and parathyroid disease and head and neck conditions including cancer. His practice includes laryngoscopy, neck lump assessment and thyroid surgery. Known for his calm, clear manner, he explains findings simply, so treatment feels informed, safe and personal.
Specialises in 9 procedures
- Grommet Insertion (Adult)
- Grommet Removal (Adult)
- Tonsillectomy (Adult)
- Sinus Surgery (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery FESS)
BirminghamThe Priory Hospital5.00 • 3 Reviews24 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6049000Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - MC
Ms Melissa Cunha
General Surgery, Colorectal
MD, PhD, FRCS
Available from 22/09/2026Miss 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.
BirminghamThe Harborne HospitalThe Priory Hospital5.00 • 2 Reviews26 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6038405Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included