Specialist Surgeon | Female Health Care | Cape Town Mediclinic
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscope, a flexible instrument with a camera and light source, is passed through the rectum and advanced around the colon. Polyps found during the examination are often removed at the same time (polypectomy), and biopsies can be taken for histology.
Indications
Colonoscopy is commonly recommended for:
- rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- a persistent change in bowel habit
- unexplained abdominal pain
- iron-deficiency anaemia
- chronic diarrhoea or constipation
- a family history of colorectal cancer
- screening, and surveillance after previous polyps
Should you have any of these symptoms, please arrange a consultation with Dr. Loots. Appointments can be booked online or made by calling the practice on 021 224 0077.
The Procedure
Colonoscopy is performed in the practice's endoscopy suite rather than in theatre. Sedation is administered by an anaesthetist. You remain in the recovery area until the sedation has worn off.
Dr. Loots discusses the findings with you before discharge. Histology results are communicated once they are available.
Bowel Preparation
A clean bowel is essential. Residual stool can obscure small lesions and may mean the examination has to be repeated.
- Follow a low-residue diet beforehand, avoiding nuts, seeds, whole grains and raw vegetables, as set out in your preparation instructions.
- Take the bowel preparation (Picoprep) at the times specified for your appointment.
- Maintain a good intake of clear fluids throughout.
- Inform the practice in advance if you take anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents or diabetic medication.
Preparation Instructions
Timing differs for morning and afternoon lists:
After the Procedure
- Do not drive, operate machinery or sign legal documents after sedation until advised that it is safe. Arrange for someone to take you home.
- You may feel bloated from the air used during the examination.
- Recovery differs between patients; Dr. Loots will advise when you can resume your normal activities.
Contact the practice if you develop significant rectal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fever or abdominal distension.
Medical Aid, Referral and Private Patients
The practice is contracted to Discovery Health for its Classic plan options, which pay the full fee for in-rooms colonoscopy. Most other medical schemes, including many hospital plans, contribute to the cost of in-rooms scopes. Benefits differ between schemes and plan options, so please confirm your cover beforehand; the practice will assist with pre-authorisation. A GP referral is welcome but not required.
Patients without South African medical aid, including visitors to Cape Town, are welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be awake?
You will be sedated by an anaesthetist. Arrange for someone to take you home, as the effects of sedation last for some time.
What happens if a polyp is found?
Polyps are often removed during the colonoscopy and sent for histology. Whether and when a follow-up colonoscopy is needed depends on the number, size and type of polyps.
When may I eat?
You will be advised when to eat and drink after the procedure.
How does colonoscopy differ from gastroscopy?
Colonoscopy examines the colon and rectum. Gastroscopy examines the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. Where both are indicated, they can be performed in one session.
Will my medical aid cover an in-rooms colonoscopy?
The practice is contracted to Discovery Health for its Classic plan options, which pay the full fee for in-rooms colonoscopy. Most other medical schemes, including many hospital plans, contribute to the cost. Please confirm your cover with your scheme beforehand; the practice will assist with pre-authorisation.
Getting to the Practice
Suite A115, Mediclinic Cape Town Hospital, 21 Hof Street, Oranjezicht. You will need someone to drive you home after sedation.
- City Bowl: Gardens, Tamboerskloof, Vredehoek, Oranjezicht and the CBD.
- Atlantic Seaboard: Green Point, Sea Point, Camps Bay and Clifton, via Kloof Nek or the city.
- Southern Suburbs: Observatory, Rondebosch, Newlands, Claremont and Constantia, via the M3.
- Northern Suburbs: Milnerton, Parow, Bellville and Durbanville, via the N1.
About Dr. Loots
Dr. Loots is a specialist general surgeon at Cape Town Mediclinic with a special interest in breast and thyroid surgery and endoscopy. MBChB (University of the Free State, 2004); MMed Surgery (Stellenbosch University, 2015); FCS SA.
Related Reading
Book a Consultation
At the first consultation Dr. Loots reviews your history and symptoms and advises whether colonoscopy is indicated. New patients should select "First consultation - new patient".
Our Details
Practice Location:
Suite A115, Cape Town Mediclinic,
21 Hof Street, Oranjezicht,
Cape Town, 8001
Get directions
Phone: 021 224 0077
Email: admin@doctorloots.com
Operating Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM