Located in the Charles Wolfson Rapid Diagnostic Centre at the Oak Cancer Centre in Sutton, the new Endoscopy Suite ensures The Royal Marsden can see more people with potential symptoms of cancer. This helps clinicians to diagnose cancers at an earlier stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful.
Michael’s story
Michael, 65, from Croydon, was diagnosed with prostate cancer and, last year, became the first patient to be seen in the new Endoscopy Suite. He had a colonoscopy as part of his diagnostic tests: “When I had my initial diagnosis, we discussed my history of ulcerative colitis,” says Michael. “Although I had been clear of symptoms for years, the medical team recommended a colonoscopy as a precautionary measure.”
“The receptionist told me the team were all excited as I was their first patient. They made me feel like I was in safe hands – the care and attention I received during and after the procedure was brilliant. Results from the colonoscopy and a subsequent biopsy has meant that surgery was decided as the next best step for me rather than radiotherapy, as this will hopefully lead to a better outcome.”
“I was impressed with the Oak Cancer Centre and all the staff. It’s an incredible building and everything looks so state-of-the-art."
“Such positive feedback from patients”
Maria Dalumpines, Lead Nurse in the Endoscopy Unit, says: “The new Endoscopy Suite is an exciting addition to the services already available and will significantly improve our ability to see people with suspected symptoms of cancer, especially improving the diagnosis of gastrointestinal cancers.”
“We’re now able to deliver high-quality diagnostic, screening and surveillance endoscopy in Sutton. We’ve had such positive feedback from patients about the quality of the service.”
Ellin Goodson, a Senior Healthcare Support Worker in the Endoscopy Suite, has also experienced The Royal Marsden as a patient, having been treated in Sutton seven years ago following a breast cancer diagnosis.
She added: “I know how important it is for patients to feel reassured and be treated in the best possible environment with access to the most modern technologies and facilities. Being in the Oak Cancer Centre really is making a huge difference for staff and patients.”
State-of-the-art equipment
Thanks to our supporters, we have been able to fund state-of-the-art equipment for the Endoscopy Suite, such as an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) device. EUS combines ultrasound technology with endoscopy to produce detailed images of the inside of a patient.
This is particularly crucial for cancers that are difficult to diagnose early and often don’t cause symptoms until they have already spread. It’s essential that clinicians have equipment like this to detect cancer as early as possible and give patients the greatest chance of survival.
Help us continue to transform cancer care
The Oak Cancer Centre was built thanks to generous supporters of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
With your support, we can continue to fund state-of-the-art equipment that will help transform treatment and care for people now and long into the future.
Find out more about ways you can support us.