Day theatre procedure
About this service
Nasal foreign body removal under general anaesthetic is a day-theatre procedure to safely take out an object lodged in the nose, most often needed for a young child who cannot cooperate with removal while awake, and it is available in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic. Children commonly push small items such as beads, beans, or toy parts into a nostril, and while some can be removed in the rooms, others need a brief general anaesthetic to be removed safely and without distress.
The procedure is carried out in our on-site day theatre by our medical team. Your doctor will first assess the nose to confirm the object's position before advising on the safest way to remove it.
What to expect
- A quick examination to locate the foreign body before the procedure
- Your child is given a short general anaesthetic so the object can be removed without fear or sudden movement
- The removal itself is usually quick, often just a few minutes
- Mild nasal discomfort or a little bleeding can occur afterwards
- Your doctor will check that the nasal passage is clear before discharge
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A child who has pushed a bead, toy part, or other object into their nose
- Persistent one-sided nasal discharge or a bad smell from one nostril in a child
- An object that could not be safely removed in the rooms
- Nosebleeds or nasal blockage after a foreign object was inserted
- A child too distressed or too young to cooperate with an awake removal
Frequently asked questions
My child has pushed a bead up their nose. What should I do?
Do not try to dig it out at home, as this can push it deeper. Keep your child calm and bring them to Eastgate Clinic. Some objects come out easily in our rooms, and others need a short anaesthetic in our day theatre.
Why does a nasal foreign body sometimes need general anaesthetic?
A wriggling, frightened child makes safe removal difficult, and a slip can injure the nose or push the object towards the airway. A brief anaesthetic keeps your child still and comfortable for the few minutes it takes.
Can a nasal foreign body be removed the same day?
Usually, yes. Because there is a real risk of the object being inhaled, we aim to arrange theatre time promptly, and your child normally goes home a few hours after the procedure.
For referring doctors
Eastgate Clinic's day theatre in Windhoek is set up for urgent nasal foreign body removals under general anaesthetic, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided. Contact us to arrange a same-day theatre slot for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your nasal foreign body removal (under ga)?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.