Colonoscopy in Windhoek

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