Dr Preetha Thomas – Physician (Gastroenterologist) – Erasmuskloof

Dr Preetha Thomas – Physician (Gastroenterologist) – Erasmuskloof

Dr Preetha Thomas is a Physician (Gastroenterologist) based in Erasmuskloof. She earned her MBChB from the University of Stellenbosch in 2008 and subsequently completed her FCP (SA) in 2015, followed by a Certificate in Gastroenterology in 2019 from the Colleges of Medicine Mediclinic. Early in her career, she discovered a passion for hepatology, inflammatory bowel disease, and bariatric gastroenterology, which led her to subspecialise at the Donald Gordon Liver Transplant Centre in Johannesburg.

At Mediclinic Kloof, she combines advanced procedural skill with medical expertise, providing both inpatient care and outpatient consultations. Moreover, Dr Thomas adopts a collaborative style, involving patients in shared decision-making from initial assessment to follow-up. Consequently, each treatment plan reflects individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, her evidence-based approach ensures compassionate, personalised care.

Services

Dr Thomas offers a comprehensive array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive gastroenterology services, each delivered with state-of-the-art technology:

• Upper Endoscopy (OGD): High-definition scopes enable direct visualization and biopsy of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum for conditions such as gastritis, ulcers, and reflux.

• Colonoscopy & Polypectomy: Thorough colorectal screening, with immediate polyp removal to prevent cancer and minimise repeat procedures.

• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Advanced fine-needle aspiration for pancreatic and biliary disorders, enhancing diagnostic accuracy.

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): Biliary and pancreatic duct imaging, with stenting for strictures and stone clearance.

• Capsule Endoscopy: Non-invasive evaluation of the small intestine using ingestible video capsules, ideal for obscure bleeding and Crohn’s disease assessment.

• Gastrointestinal Motility Studies: Manometry and pH monitoring for achalasia, GERD, and functional bowel disorders, guiding targeted therapy.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease Care: Tailored management plans for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, including the latest biologic therapies.

• Hepatology Services: Assessment and treatment of viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and portal-hypertension complications.

• Nutritional & Lifestyle Counselling: Collaboration with dietitians on weight-management, diet optimisation, and psychosocial support for bariatric candidates.

Additional Information

Mediclinic Kloof features a dedicated endoscopy suite equipped with high-definition video processors, narrow-band imaging, and an on-site pathology laboratory for rapid histological analysis. In addition, the hospital’s multidisciplinary teams—comprising hepatologists, surgeons, radiologists, and dietitians—ensure seamless referrals and comprehensive follow-through.

Furthermore, Dr Thomas contributes to clinical research on endoscopic innovations and bariatric gastroenterology. She regularly presents her findings at regional conferences and publishes in peer-reviewed journals, thereby advancing gastroenterology standards Mediclinic. Moreover, she mentors registrars in procedural techniques and patient-centred communication, fostering excellence in the next generation.

Ultimately, each consultation with Dr Thomas emphasises clear explanations and collaborative goal-setting, so patients feel informed and empowered. Therefore, whether you require a routine screening or management of complex gastrointestinal disease, her personalised approach delivers expert, evidence-based care. Schedule a consultation today to embark on your journey toward optimal digestive health.