Day theatre procedure
About this service
A colonoscopy is a full examination of the colon, performed by a visiting surgeon in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre. A thin, flexible camera is passed through the bowel to look directly at its lining, helping to investigate symptoms like changes in bowel habit, rectal bleeding or unexplained abdominal pain, and it is also used for bowel cancer screening in some patients. If anything unusual is found, such as a polyp, it can often be removed or sampled during the same procedure.
Because a clear view of the bowel is essential, you will need to follow a preparation routine beforehand to empty it fully. The procedure is done under sedation, so you are comfortable throughout, and you will need someone to take you home afterwards.
What to expect
- You follow a bowel preparation routine at home in the day or two before the procedure.
- Sedation is given so you are relaxed and comfortable during the examination.
- The procedure itself typically takes around thirty minutes to an hour.
- You rest until the sedation wears off, and should not drive yourself home afterwards.
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A change in bowel habit that has not resolved
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Unexplained abdominal pain or weight loss
- Bowel cancer screening recommended by your doctor
Frequently asked questions
How do I prepare my bowel for a colonoscopy?
You follow a clear-fluid diet and take a prescribed bowel-cleansing preparation the day before, so the colon is empty and the surgeon can see the lining clearly. Poor preparation is the main reason a colonoscopy has to be repeated, so follow the instructions closely.
Can I drive home after a colonoscopy?
No. The sedation affects your judgement and reaction time for the rest of the day, so you must arrange for someone to collect you from our day theatre and ideally stay with you that evening.
Do I need a referral for a colonoscopy at Eastgate Clinic?
You can book directly with us. A GP first sees you in our rooms to assess your symptoms or screening needs, then arranges the colonoscopy with the visiting surgeon in our on-site day theatre.
For referring doctors
Visiting surgeons can book colonoscopy sessions in Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with sedation, anaesthetist support and theatre staff provided. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patients.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your colonoscopy?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.