Small Bowel Enteroscopy

What is a Small Bowel Enteroscopy?

Small bowel enteroscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the small intestine. It involves using a long, flexible tube called an endoscope equipped with a camera, light, and other specialised instruments.

The endoscope is inserted into the mouth (anterograde) or anus (retrograde) and passed through the digestive system until it reaches the small intestine. The camera allows the gastroenterologist to view the small intestine's lining and identify and potentially treat any abnormalities.

Who is Suitable for Small Bowel Enteroscopy?

Small bowel enteroscopy is recommended for patients with known or suspected small intestine abnormalities such as tumours, strictures, polyps, or bleeding. Patients with a history of inflammatory bowel or celiac disease may also benefit from small bowel enteroscopy.

What are the Benefits of Small Bowel Enteroscopy?

Small bowel enteroscopy offers several benefits, including:

• Accurate diagnosis: Small bowel enteroscopy is a highly accurate diagnostic tool that allows gastroenterologists to identify small intestine abnormalities that may not be visible on other diagnostic tests such as X-rays or CT scans.
• Minimally invasive: Small bowel enteroscopy is minimally invasive and does not require surgery. Patients can usually return home the same day.
• Tissue sampling: Small bowel enteroscopy allows gastroenterologists to take tissue samples from the small intestine for further examination, which can help diagnose small intestine abnormalities.
• Therapeutic interventions: Small bowel enteroscopy can also be used to perform therapeutic interventions such as removing polyps or stopping bleeding in the small intestine.

Alternative Options to Small Bowel Enteroscopy

Small bowel enteroscopy is not the only diagnostic tool for evaluating the small intestine. Other options include:

• CT enterography
• Magnetic resonance enterography

What to Do Before a Small Bowel Enteroscopy?

Before your small bowel enteroscopy, your gastroenterologist will provide you with specific instructions to follow. These instructions may include the following:

• Fasting: You must fast for a certain period before the procedure. Your gastroenterologist will give you specific instructions about how long to fast.
• Medication adjustments: You may need to adjust your medications before the procedure. Your gastroenterologist will provide specific instructions about which medications to adjust and how to adjust them.
• Bowel preparation: Before the procedure, you may undergo bowel preparation to ensure your small intestine is clean and debris-free. This may involve drinking a special solution or taking laxatives.

It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the procedure is safe and effective.

What Happens During Small Bowel Enteroscopy?

During a small bowel enteroscopy, you will be given sedation to help you relax and feel comfortable. Your gastroenterologist will insert the endoscope through your mouth or anus and pass it through the digestive system until it reaches the small intestine. The endoscope has a camera and other specialised instruments that allow your gastroenterologist to examine the small intestine's lining and take tissue samples if necessary.

The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours to complete, and you will be monitored closely throughout to ensure your safety and comfort.

What Happens After a Small Bowel Enteroscopy?

After your small bowel enteroscopy, you will be moved to a recovery area and monitored until the sedation wears off. After the procedure, you may experience discomfort, bloating, or cramping, but this should subside within a few hours.

Small Bowel Enteroscopy Recovery Plan

Your gastroenterologist will provide you with specific instructions for your recovery period, which may include the following:

• Resting: You should rest for the remainder of the day after the procedure to allow your body to recover fully.
• Resuming normal activities: You can usually resume your activities the day after the procedure, but you should avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for a few days.
• Diet: You should start with clear liquids and then progress to a regular diet as tolerated. Your gastroenterologist will provide specific instructions on when to resume your regular diet.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking water and clear fluids can help prevent dehydration and flush out any remaining bowel preparation solution from your system.
• Take pain medication as prescribed: You may experience discomfort or cramping after the procedure, and your gastroenterologist may prescribe pain medication to manage this. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by your gastroenterologist and avoid taking any over-the-counter pain medication without their approval.
• Watch for signs of complications: While small bowel enteroscopy is generally safe, there is a risk of bleeding or infection. Watch for signs of complications such as severe abdominal pain, fever, or black stools and contact your gastroenterologist immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Follow-up with your gastroenterologist: Your gastroenterologist will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the procedure's results and any necessary treatment. Attending this appointment and following their recommendations is essential to ensure the best possible outcome.

Small Bowel Enteroscopy Prognosis

Small bowel enteroscopy is a highly effective diagnostic and therapeutic tool for identifying and treating small intestine abnormalities.

The prognosis for patients undergoing small bowel enteroscopy for diagnostic purposes depends on the underlying condition being evaluated. Early detection and treatment of small intestine abnormalities can lead to improved outcomes and a better prognosis.

Small Bowel Enteroscopy Risks

While small bowel enteroscopy is generally a safe procedure, there are potential risks involved, including:

• Bleeding: Small bowel enteroscopy can cause bleeding in the small intestine, which can lead to anaemia or other complications. This is a rare complication, but patients with bleeding disorders may be at higher risk.
• Perforation: In rare cases, small bowel enteroscopy can cause a perforation, or tear, in the small intestine. This can lead to infection or other complications that require further treatment.
• Sedation risks: Small bowel enteroscopy requires sedation, which can lead to complications such as respiratory depression, allergic reactions, or cardiovascular events.

Your gastroenterologist will discuss these potential risks with you before the procedure and take steps to minimise the risk of complications.

What if Small Bowel Enteroscopy is Delayed?

If small bowel enteroscopy is delayed, it can delay diagnosing and treating small intestine abnormalities, resulting in complications and a poorer prognosis. However, a delay may be necessary if additional preparation or evaluation is needed to ensure the procedure's safety and effectiveness.

Your gastroenterologist will work with you to determine the best course of action if the procedure is delayed and ensure that you receive the appropriate care.

What is the Cost of a Small Bowel Enteroscopy?

The cost of a small bowel enteroscopy in Australia can vary widely depending on the indication.

Patients with private health insurance may be eligible for rebates or procedure coverage. Before the procedure, check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.