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
Mr ward - Excellent manner, professionalism and advice with clear next steps and options to review. Very reassuring from an obvious leading consultant in their field and excellent response to questions.
— Patient of Stephen WardI was. seen for a bowel surgery. I was very happy with the whole experience. A very personal, caring surgeon. Thank you so much
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisSimon is always there for support if I have any questions. Since my bowel resection surgery I have reached out to him when I have had any questions, he’s always available to help me. I feel very supported and extremely lucky to have Simon supporting, I always feel he is rooting for me to get well
— Patient of Simon RadleyHe was absolutely a gentleman . He had a lot of knowledge, listened to me, showed sympathy and explained everything
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonDr Radley was kind, informative and professional,. He took the time to listen to my concerns and put my mind at rest with a plan going forward. Couldn't recommend him highly enough. Such a lovely man.
— Patient of Simon RadleyComprehensive coverage of all aspects of my recovery
— Patient of Benjamin TanDr Richardson was professional from the beginning. Informed me of all the details of procedures. Very supportive and would definitely recommend him.
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonVery caring and gave me a feeling of great confidence in the procedure. Thank
— Patient of Melanie FieldAll fine thanks - very helpful and reassuring.
— Patient of Simon RadleyVery informative and professional
— Patient of Stephen WardMr ward - Excellent manner, professionalism and advice with clear next steps and options to review. Very reassuring from an obvious leading consultant in their field and excellent response to questions.
— Patient of Stephen WardI was. seen for a bowel surgery. I was very happy with the whole experience. A very personal, caring surgeon. Thank you so much
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisSimon is always there for support if I have any questions. Since my bowel resection surgery I have reached out to him when I have had any questions, he’s always available to help me. I feel very supported and extremely lucky to have Simon supporting, I always feel he is rooting for me to get well
— Patient of Simon RadleyHe was absolutely a gentleman . He had a lot of knowledge, listened to me, showed sympathy and explained everything
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonDr Radley was kind, informative and professional,. He took the time to listen to my concerns and put my mind at rest with a plan going forward. Couldn't recommend him highly enough. Such a lovely man.
— Patient of Simon RadleyComprehensive coverage of all aspects of my recovery
— Patient of Benjamin TanDr Richardson was professional from the beginning. Informed me of all the details of procedures. Very supportive and would definitely recommend him.
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonVery caring and gave me a feeling of great confidence in the procedure. Thank
— Patient of Melanie FieldAll fine thanks - very helpful and reassuring.
— Patient of Simon RadleyVery informative and professional
— Patient of Stephen WardMeet the experts
- MF
Miss Melanie Field
General Surgery
MBChB, MD, MMedEd
Available from 01/05/2026Miss 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.
The Priory Hospital4.98 • 21 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 Aston4.97 • 19 Reviews18 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 7013734Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - SW
Mr Stephen Ward
Colorectal, General Surgery
BSc (Hons), MB BS, PhD, FRCS
Available from 01/05/2026Mr 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 • 13 Reviews23 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6075264Book 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 11/05/2026Mr 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 - NS
Professor Neil Sharma
General Surgery, ENT
MBChB PhD FRCS (ORL HNS)
Available from 07/05/2026Professor 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
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 • 2 Reviews26 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6038405Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - KW
Mr Kasun Wanigasooriya
General Surgery, Colorectal
MBChB, PGcert, MBA, PhD, FRCS
Available from 30/04/2026Mr 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
The Meriden Hospital16 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 7071800Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included