Dr Dirkie Claassen – Physician (Gastroenterologist) – Brackenfell

Dr Dirkie Claassen – Physician (Gastroenterologist) – Brackenfell

Dr Dirkie Claassen – Physician (Gastroenterologist) – Brackenfell earned his MBChB from the University of the Free State in 2010. Moreover, he completed his internship at Victoria Hospital in Wynberg and fulfilled community service at Knysna Provincial Hospital. Consequently, he developed a strong foundation in general medicine. Subsequently, he served as a medical officer in orthopaedics at Worcester Hospital and Groote Schuur Hospital, where he honed his procedural skills and patient management techniques.

In 2019, Dr Claassen achieved FCP (SA) and Cert in Gastroenterology (SA) from the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa, alongside an MMed (Internal Medicine) from Stellenbosch University. Throughout his specialist training, he refined both diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy methods. Furthermore, he contributed to peer-reviewed clinical research and presented at national conferences, thereby advancing gastroenterology practice standards.

Today, Dr Claassen practices at Mediclinic Cape Gate and its Day Clinic, which opened on 1 September 2020. Thus, he offers care in both an ultramodern hospital environment and a streamlined outpatient setting. His blend of academic rigor and hands-on expertise ensures that every patient benefits from evidence-based, compassionate care.

Services

• Diagnostic Gastroscopy: high-definition video endoscopy with narrow-band imaging for detailed mucosal evaluation.

• Colonoscopy: advanced water-immersion, cap-assisted techniques, and polypectomy under sedation.

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): minimally invasive management of bile-duct and pancreatic disorders.

• Capsule Endoscopy: wireless small-bowel imaging without sedation, ideal for obscure GI bleeding.

• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): staging of GI tumours and guided fine-needle aspiration.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease Management: personalised protocols for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment: combining dietary strategies, psychological support, and pharmacotherapy.

• Liver Disease Care: management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, and cirrhosis.

• Peptic Ulcer & Reflux Therapy: endoscopic interventions and tailored medical regimens.

• Metabolic Disease & Weight Management: collaborative programmes featuring nutritional counselling and follow-up.

Each service leverages state-of-the-art technologies—such as real-time video processors, fluoroscopy, and high-resolution endoscopes—to deliver precise diagnoses and treatments.

Additional Information

Mediclinic Cape Gate’s endoscopy suites feature real-time video processing, fluoroscopy capabilities, and dedicated sedation areas. Moreover, the adjacent Day Clinic offers rapid access to outpatient endoscopic procedures in a patient-friendly environment.

Dr Claassen leads a multidisciplinary team including radiologists, pathologists, and specialised dietitians. Consequently, patients receive coordinated, holistic care from diagnosis through recovery. He ensures clear, compassionate communication at every step. Furthermore, he upholds stringent aseptic techniques and infection-control protocols to maximize safety and comfort.

He conducts regular follow-up clinics to monitor healing and adjust management plans as needed. Thus, treatment remains tailored and responsive to individual progress. Additionally, Dr Claassen contributes to educational workshops and mentors junior physicians to advance local gastroenterology practice.

Schedule a consultation today to explore personalized gastrointestinal solutions and discover how cutting-edge, minimally invasive techniques can restore your digestive health and enhance quality of life.