Small Bowel Endoscopy

A small bowel endoscopy, also known as enteroscopy, is a medical procedure used to visually examine the inside of the small intestine.

Purpose

The purpose of a small bowel endoscopy is to:

• Diagnose and treat conditions such as bleeding, inflammation, and blockages in the small intestine
• Investigate symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss
• Monitor the progression of known conditions, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease

Procedure

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. The patient is given a sedative to help them relax and a local anesthetic to numb the throat
2. A flexible tube with a camera and light on the end (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth and guided through the stomach and into the small intestine
3. The doctor uses the endoscope to visually examine the inside of the small intestine, looking for any abnormalities or signs of disease
4. Biopsies or other procedures may be performed during the examination if necessary
5. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes to complete

Types of Small Bowel Endoscopy

There are several types of small bowel endoscopy, including:

• Push enteroscopy: This is the most common type of small bowel endoscopy, where the endoscope is inserted through the mouth and guided through the stomach and into the small intestine
• Single-balloon enteroscopy: This type of procedure uses a balloon on the end of the endoscope to help guide it through the small intestine
• Double-balloon enteroscopy: This type of procedure uses two balloons, one on the end of the endoscope and one on a overtube, to help guide the endoscope through the small intestine
• Rotary enteroscopy: This type of procedure uses a rotating device to help guide the endoscope through the small intestine
• Capsule endoscopy: This type of procedure involves swallowing a capsule with a camera that takes pictures of the inside of the small intestine as it passes through

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with small bowel endoscopy, including:

• Bleeding or perforation of the small intestine
• Infection
• Allergic reaction to the sedative or anesthetic
• Abdominal pain or discomfort

Preparation

To prepare for a small bowel endoscopy, patients should:

• Fast for at least 8 hours before the procedure
• Avoid eating foods that are high in fiber or fat
• Inform their doctor of any medications they are taking, including blood thinners and diabetes medications
• Arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure

After the Procedure

After the procedure, patients should:

• Rest for several hours
• Avoid eating or drinking for at least 2 hours
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least 24 hours
• Follow any instructions provided by their doctor regarding medication and follow-up care