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
Phone consultation to save me a 2 hour round trip - wasn't necessary for me to be seen in person on this occasion, so really appreciated that.
— Patient of Simon RadleyExtremely helpful. Very professional.
— Patient of Simon RadleyI felt confident I was in good hands from my initial consultation to completion of procedure .
— Patient of Simon RadleyMy illness had placed me in an anxious and worried state, as everything felt unclear and my options were uncertain. I felt like I had little hope or control, as illness often does even to the best of us. I was referred to Ms. Addison, who was welcoming, brilliant, attentive, and solution-oriented. She is knowledgeable, empathetic, reassuring, and truly present. These words still cannot fully describe the quality of care she provides; she is a breath of fresh air. Simply amazing.
— Patient of Sarah AddisonAppointment in time, all staff very pleasant and helpful. Good to see Mr. Radley again after ten years (hasn't agreed at all). Answered all my concerns in a pleasant and professional manner. Could not have been better
— Patient of Simon RadleyExcellent consultation, very knowledgeable and informative.
— Patient of Simon RadleyMiss Addison is extremely knowledgeable in her field which is immediately clear. She is highly professional but able to put you at complete ease in what can be a very personal appointment. The whole experience during her assessment put my mind at rest, providing answers to my concerns and a clear plan. The whole appointment was an excellent experience as far as medical appointments go. I can highly recommend her.
— Patient of Sarah AddisonSimon Radley took over after my surgeon went on annual leave and was superb in all aspects
— Patient of Simon RadleySimon has been more than exceptional in the way he has helped me and looked after me all these years… amazing!
— Patient of Simon RadleyMr Radley is always very courteous and willing to discuss any aspects of your case. Always on time .always very clear about the next step of your treatment
— Patient of Simon RadleyPhone consultation to save me a 2 hour round trip - wasn't necessary for me to be seen in person on this occasion, so really appreciated that.
— Patient of Simon RadleyExtremely helpful. Very professional.
— Patient of Simon RadleyI felt confident I was in good hands from my initial consultation to completion of procedure .
— Patient of Simon RadleyMy illness had placed me in an anxious and worried state, as everything felt unclear and my options were uncertain. I felt like I had little hope or control, as illness often does even to the best of us. I was referred to Ms. Addison, who was welcoming, brilliant, attentive, and solution-oriented. She is knowledgeable, empathetic, reassuring, and truly present. These words still cannot fully describe the quality of care she provides; she is a breath of fresh air. Simply amazing.
— Patient of Sarah AddisonAppointment in time, all staff very pleasant and helpful. Good to see Mr. Radley again after ten years (hasn't agreed at all). Answered all my concerns in a pleasant and professional manner. Could not have been better
— Patient of Simon RadleyExcellent consultation, very knowledgeable and informative.
— Patient of Simon RadleyMiss Addison is extremely knowledgeable in her field which is immediately clear. She is highly professional but able to put you at complete ease in what can be a very personal appointment. The whole experience during her assessment put my mind at rest, providing answers to my concerns and a clear plan. The whole appointment was an excellent experience as far as medical appointments go. I can highly recommend her.
— Patient of Sarah AddisonSimon Radley took over after my surgeon went on annual leave and was superb in all aspects
— Patient of Simon RadleySimon has been more than exceptional in the way he has helped me and looked after me all these years… amazing!
— Patient of Simon RadleyMr Radley is always very courteous and willing to discuss any aspects of your case. Always on time .always very clear about the next step of your treatment
— Patient of Simon RadleyMeet the experts
- JP
Mr Jitesh Parmar
General Surgery
MBBS, MD, FRCS
Available from 27/02/2026Mr 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 • 92 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 • 14 Reviews24 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6048883Book 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 02/03/2026Mr 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 03/03/2026Mr 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 • 8 Reviews23 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6075264Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - NS
Professor Neil Sharma
General Surgery, ENT
MBChB PhD FRCS (ORL HNS)
Professor 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
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
General Medical Council: 7071800Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included