Enteroscopy
Advanced Small Intestine Examination
Enteroscopy is a specialized ,endoscopic procedure that allows doctors to visualize
the small intestine, an area that is not easily accessible with standard endoscopy
or colonoscopy. It is commonly used to detect and treat conditions affecting the
small bowel and to investigate causes of unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms.
Types of Enteroscopy
AGLC offers the latest enteroscopy techniques to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment:
- Single-Balloon & Double-Balloon Enteroscopy Uses an advanced balloon-assisted scope to navigate deeper into the small intestine.
- Capsule Endoscopy A non-invasive technique where the patient swallows a small camera capsule that captures images as it travels through the digestive tract.
- Spiral Enteroscopy Uses a spiral overtube to assist in advancing the scope further into the small intestine.
Why is Enteroscopy Performed?
Enteroscopy is used to detect and manage various small intestinal disorders, including:
- Unexplained Gastrointestinal Bleeding Identifying and treating sources of bleeding in the small intestine.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Diagnosing Crohn’s disease and other small bowel inflammations.
- Small Bowel Tumors & Polyps Detecting and removing abnormal growths or early signs of cancer.
- Celiac Disease & Malabsorption Syndromes Evaluating conditions affecting nutrient absorption.
- Chronic Abdominal Pain & Unexplained Diarrhea Investigating causes that are not detectable through other imaging tests.
How is Enteroscopy Performed?
The procedure varies based on the type of enteroscopy used:
- Balloon-Assisted Enteroscopy A flexible tube with a camera and small balloons is inserted through the mouth or rectum. The balloons help move the scope deeper into the intestine.
- Capsule Endoscopy The patient swallows a small, pill-sized camera that captures thousands of images while passing through the digestive tract.
- Spiral Enteroscopy A rotating spiral tube helps advance the scope further into the small bowel for detailed visualization.
Most enteroscopy procedures are performed under mild sedation to ensure patient comfort.
The procedure duration varies based on the technique used and the specific findings.
Benefits of Enteroscopy at AGLC
- High-Precision Diagnosis Allows for a detailed examination of the small intestine to detect abnormalities.
- Minimally Invasive Balloon-assisted and capsule endoscopy reduce the need for major surgical interventions.
- Expert Gastroenterologists Our team of specialists at AGLC ensures safe and accurate procedures with a patient-centric approach.
Preparing for an Enteroscopy
Before the procedure, patients may be required to:
- Fast for 8-12 hours before the test.
- Adjust medications as per doctor’s advice.
- Undergo bowel preparation in certain cases.
Post-procedure, patients can resume normal activities after a short recovery period, unless advised otherwise.
For appointments or more information, contact Agra Gastro Liver Centre (AGLC).
Let us help you achieve better digestive health with expert care.