Upper GI & hernia care

Fast access to trusted specialists for oesophagus, stomach, and hernia issues – helping you get clarity, comfort, and care without delay.

man explains problem with hernia

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

I had an excellent experience. I was made to feel very comfortable, and every aspect was explained in a clear and reassuring manner.

Patient of Sam Ford

Professor ford was very professional in a very polite and friendly way he explained everything in detail and took time to understand my worries about having an endoscopy and reassured me that I would be totally asleep and not feel or know anything I have trust and faith in this man and would recommend him in future

Patient of Sam Ford

Post op check up - very informative and given time to ask questions. Felt relaxed and reassured.

Patient of James Barnes

Seen Mr barns several time, he explains everything with great deal and make sure we understand. He also has a very friendly manner.

Patient of James Barnes

Happy with the treatment I have received. Since my operation I am feeling 100 percent better. This hospital is fantastic.

Patient of Melanie Field

Everything explained clearly. Dr Addison was compassionate and took time to listen. Understood the challenges towards people with learning disabilities.

Patient of Sarah Addison

Ms Sarah listened patiently to my health concerns, advised the necessary procedures for treatment, and clearly explained the next steps.

Patient of Sarah Addison

I came to see Mr Simon Radley for a consultation on a potential Inguinal hernia operation. He was very, very helpful and friendly and fully explained everything. I took a notebook with me woth 6 plus questions but he already gave me the info without me asking them. Then a few I did ask about my hobby and lifestyle he answered leaving me feeling much more confident and comfortable.

Patient of Simon Radley

Consultant was knowledgeable and explained things clearly . Good telephone manner It was easy to set up the appointment

Patient of Simon Radley

Professor Ford is very clear and helpful.

Patient of Sam Ford
Our specialists

Meet the experts

  • MF

    Miss Melanie Field

    General Surgery

    MBChB, MD, MMedEd

    Available from 19/06/2026

    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 Hospital
    4.99 • 25 Reviews
    24 Years Experience
    General Medical Council: 6048883
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    Free Booking Protection Included
  • SP

    Mr Sofoklis Panteleimonitis

    Colorectal, General Surgery

    MBChB, BSc, MRes, MD, FRCS

    Available from 16/06/2026

    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. 

    Specialises in 2 procedures

    • Banding of Haemorrhoids
    • Robotic Inguinal Hernia Surgery
    See full profile
    Spire Little Aston
    The Harborne Hospital
    4.97 • 20 Reviews
    18 Years Experience
    General Medical Council: 7013734
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    Free 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 Hospital
    The Harborne Hospital
    4.98 • 15 Reviews
    19 Years Experience
    General Medical Council: 6160449
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    Free Booking Protection Included
  • NC

    Mr Nikolaos Chatzizacharias

    Hepatobilliary, General Surgery

    MD, PhD, FRCS, FRCS (Glasg), FACS

    Available from 22/06/2026

    Mr 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
    See full profile
    Birmingham
    The Harborne Hospital
    4.95 • 14 Reviews
    22 Years Experience
    General Medical Council: 6165632
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    Free Booking Protection Included
  • SW

    Mr Stephen Ward

    Colorectal, General Surgery

    BSc (Hons), MB BS, PhD, FRCS

    Available from 12/06/2026

    Mr 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
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    The Harborne Hospital
    The Priory Hospital
    5.00 • 14 Reviews
    23 Years Experience
    General Medical Council: 6075264
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    Free Booking Protection Included
  • NS

    Professor Neil Sharma

    General Surgery, ENT

    MBChB PhD FRCS (ORL HNS)

    Available from 16/07/2026

    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)
    See full profile
    Birmingham
    The Priory Hospital
    5.00 • 3 Reviews
    24 Years Experience
    General Medical Council: 6049000
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    Free 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 Hospital
    The Priory Hospital
    5.00 • 2 Reviews
    26 Years Experience
    General Medical Council: 6038405
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    Free Booking Protection Included
  • KW

    Mr Kasun Wanigasooriya

    General Surgery, Colorectal

    MBChB, PGcert, MBA, PhD, FRCS

    Available from 18/06/2026

    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. 

    Specialises in 5 procedures

    • Banding of Haemorrhoids
    • Open Inguinal Hernia Repair
    • Incisional Hernia Repair
    • Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
    See full profile
    The Meriden Hospital
    5.00 • 1 Review
    16 Years Experience
    General Medical Council: 7071800
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    Free Booking Protection Included

Get treated and get better, fast

Clarity in care

Frequently Asked Questions