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Enteroscopy Explained: What You Need to Know

An enteroscopy is a test that helps your doctor look inside your small intestine. The doctor uses a thin, bendable tube called an endoscope. It has a small camera on the tip, which shows clear pictures of the inside of your intestines.Doctors usually do this test to find the cause of problems like unexplained bleeding, stomach pain, or other digestive issues. Sometimes, other tests can’t find the problem, so enteroscopy gives a better view and more answers.
Minimally invasive enteroscopy procedure using advanced medical technology.
A patient is undergoing an advanced enteroscopy using minimally invasive techniques for small intestine examination.

Benefits of Enteroscopy

Enteroscopy has many benefits, especially when it comes to finding and treating problems in the small intestine.

  • Clear Diagnosis: It gives your doctor a close and clear view of your small intestine. This helps find issues like polyps, ulcers, tumors, or areas that are bleeding.
  • Treatments During the Procedure: In some cases, the doctor can treat the problem right away. For example, they can remove a polyp or stop bleeding without needing surgery.
  • Safe and Quick: The test is usually safe and causes little discomfort. It also helps doctors find the cause of your symptoms quickly.

Risks of Enteroscopy

Enteroscopy is a safe test, but like all medical procedures, it has some risks.

  • Bleeding or Infection: If the doctor removes tissue, there’s a small chance of bleeding or infection.
  • Tear in the Intestine: Rarely, the tube could cause a small tear in the wall of the intestine.

What Should I Expect During an Enteroscopy?

  • Before the test, you’ll need to stop eating and drinking for a few hours. Your doctor will tell you exactly how to prepare.
  • During the test, you’ll lie on your side and get a mild sedative to help you relax. The doctor will gently insert the endoscope through your mouth and guide it into your small intestine.
  • After the test, you’ll rest for a short time until the sedation wears off. Most people can go home the same day, but you’ll need someone to drive you.

What are the Alternatives to an Enteroscopy?

If enteroscopy isn’t the best choice for you, your doctor may suggest other tests:

  • Capsule Endoscopy: You swallow a tiny camera in a pill. It takes pictures as it moves through your digestive system.
  • CT or MRI Scans: These imaging tests give a wider view of your digestive tract.

Why Choose GI Partners of Illinois?

At GI Partners of Illinois, we focus on your digestive health with care and expertise. Our skilled doctors use the latest tools to give you the most accurate results and effective treatment. We make sure you feel comfortable and supported at every step.

Forms and Preparation

Before your enteroscopy, you’ll need to fill out some forms and follow instructions like fasting and adjusting medications. You can download the forms from our website to save time on the day of your test.

 

FAQs

Most patients report little to no discomfort due to the sedation used during the procedure. 

The procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of your condition.

Yes, most patients can resume eating once the effects of sedation have worn off. Your doctor will give you specific instructions. 

Yes, since sedation is used, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure.

An enteroscopy is a type of endoscopy specifically used to examine the small intestine, which is hard to reach with standard endoscopies. This procedure uses a longer, flexible tube to help doctors view and treat areas deeper in the digestive tract.

Yes, most enteroscopies are done with sedation to ensure comfort during the procedure. You’ll likely feel drowsy or relaxed, and many people don’t remember the procedure at all. Your doctor will discuss the sedation process with you beforehand.

Preparation usually involves fasting for several hours before the procedure and possibly avoiding certain medications. Your doctor may also recommend a special diet or laxative to clear your digestive tract. Specific instructions will be given based on your individual needs.

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