Day theatre procedureAbout this service
An appendicectomy, the surgical removal of the appendix, is performed in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre, most often as an urgent procedure for appendicitis. Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and infected, typically causing worsening abdominal pain, nausea and fever, and it generally requires prompt surgical removal to prevent the appendix from rupturing. Because of this, an appendicectomy is often arranged quickly once the diagnosis is confirmed, rather than scheduled well in advance.
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia, and while recovery time can vary depending on how advanced the appendicitis was, many patients are up and moving again within a day or two. Your surgeon will explain what was found during surgery and what recovery involves for you specifically.
What to expect
- You are assessed urgently to confirm appendicitis before surgery is arranged.
- The operation is performed under general anaesthesia.
- Surgery is typically completed within an hour or so, depending on complexity.
- Recovery time varies, but many patients are walking and eating again within a day or two.
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Worsening pain in the lower right abdomen
- Abdominal pain alongside nausea, fever or loss of appetite
- A doctor suspects or has diagnosed appendicitis
- Sudden abdominal pain that is getting rapidly worse
Frequently asked questions
Is an appendicectomy painful?
The surgery is done under general anaesthesia, so there is no pain during the operation. Recovery discomfort is managed with pain relief.
Do I need a referral for an appendicectomy in Windhoek?
Appendicitis is usually treated as an emergency, so contact us immediately if you suspect it rather than waiting for a referral.
How long does recovery take after an appendicectomy?
Many people recover within one to two weeks, though this depends on whether the appendix had ruptured; your surgeon will advise based on your case.
For referring doctors
Referring doctors can arrange urgent appendicectomy bookings through Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist and theatre staff available for prompt surgical care. Contact us directly for urgent cases.
Day theatre information for doctors