Children often complain of tummy aches or sudden stomach upsets. Most of the time, these settle quickly. But sometimes, ongoing or severe symptoms point to something more complex. In those moments, the right evaluation and procedure can help uncover the cause and guide treatment.
As a paediatric surgeon in Johannesburg, Dr Niveshni Maistry provides procedures such as gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and biopsies.
What are gastrointestinal conditions in children?
Gastrointestinal conditions affect the digestive tract, which includes the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. In children, these conditions can show up as:
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Vomiting that does not settle
- Ongoing diarrhoea or constipation
- Blood in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Poor growth or difficulty feeding
When symptoms are severe or long-lasting, further investigation is needed to identify the underlying cause.
Which gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures are most commonly used?
- Gastroscopy: A gastroscopy uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. It helps detect inflammation, ulcers, or hiatal hernias. The procedure is done under sedation or anaesthesia, so your child will not feel discomfort.
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy examines the large intestine using a similar flexible tube with a camera. It is used to investigate causes of rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits. During the procedure, small tissue samples can also be taken for testing.
- Insertion of feeding access devices: For chronically ill children with significant feeding difficulties, insertion of devices directly into the stomach to allow safe feeding may be required
What symptoms suggest a gastrointestinal procedure may be needed?
The following symptoms can signal that further investigation is necessary:
- Abdominal pain that keeps returning or does not improve
- Vomiting blood or bile
- Blood in the stool
- Chronic constipation or diarrhoea
- Difficulty gaining weight or unexplained weight loss
- Signs of anaemia, such as fatigue and pallor
If your child experiences these symptoms, a consultation with our paediatric surgeon in Johannesburg, Dr Maistry, can determine whether a gastroscopy, colonoscopy, or biopsy is the next step.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Recovery is usually smooth. Most children go home the same day. You may notice mild throat discomfort after a gastroscopy or temporary bloating after a colonoscopy. Detailed results are explained once biopsy findings are available. You will also receive clear advice on next steps for care or treatment.
Make the next move
Digestive problems in children can be worrying, especially when symptoms are severe or persistent. The proper investigation can bring clarity and relief.
If your child has ongoing abdominal pain, bleeding, or unexplained digestive issues, booking an appointment with our paediatric surgeon in Johannesburg, Dr Maistry, is an essential next step. Together, you can explore the role of different procedural options.