What do the procedures, gastroscopy and colonoscopy entail?

A gastroscopy and a colonoscopy are performed endoscopically using an illuminated tube (endoscope). A small light and camera attached at the end of the scope help view the area in detail.

A gastroscopy is carried out by inserting the endoscope orally through the mouth, which is guided down the throat into the stomach. At the same time, Dr van der Westhuizen can remove tissue for biopsy analysis. The procedure is done to treat stomach ulcers and confirm their presence in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Before the procedure, you will be given an anaesthetic to numb the sensation in the throat. The inside of your throat is numbed, so you will not feel the endoscope passing through the throat into the stomach.

A colonoscopy is performed very differently. Instead, the endoscope is passed through the anus into the rectum and colon. Then, Dr van der Westhuizen pumps harmless gas through the scope to dilate the large intestine. This is done so she can get a better view of the area. A camera at the edge of the scope sends images of the intestine to a screen in the doctor’s room. During a colonoscopy, Dr van der Westhuizen removes polyps which could be a warning sign of cancer. Furthermore, she removes suspicious tissue for biopsy analysis.

You will experience light bleeding from the anus if she removes the polyps. However, this is nothing to be concerned about. The pathologist will transfer the biopsy results to Dr van der Westhuizen in a few days. Then, she will discuss the results with you over the phone or in person during a consultation.