Are you having problems with your small intestine? Let's learn about enteroscopy.

You've probably heard the doctor say they need to put a camera in your stomach to look. Most of the time, we call this an endoscopy. But did you know that there's a different way to look for problems deep inside your intestines that a regular endoscopy can't? That's what we call an enteroscopy. Today, we'll talk about this in a simple way that you can understand.

What is enteroscopy simply?

Simply put, enteroscopy is a non-surgical procedure that examines the lining of your small intestine. This allows your doctor to diagnose conditions in your small intestine without making an incision.

Now you might be wondering what the difference is between an endoscopy and this. Think of your digestive system as a long tunnel. A regular endoscopy can only look at the upper part of this tunnel, which is the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. But the small intestine is several meters long. Enteroscopy is used to go inside that long part.

The equipment used for this is the same as for an endoscopy. That is, a thin tube with a camera and a light at the end. But the specialty of this is that it has been equipped with technology that allows the tube to be passed much further along the small intestine.

When is an enteroscopy necessary?

A doctor will usually refer you for this test if they suspect you have a problem with your small intestine that other tests can't find. Let's take a look at what those situations are.

Enteroscopy is not only used to diagnose diseases. Sometimes, this method is also used to perform minor treatments at the same time.

• Biopsy: A very small piece of tissue is taken from a suspicious area of ​​the intestine and sent to a laboratory to find out exactly what it is.
• Polyp removal: Remove unwanted polyps that have formed inside the colon.
• Stopping a bleeding area: If there is a bleeding area, such as a wound, cauterize it to stop the bleeding.
• Widening a narrowed area: If a narrowed or blocked area in the intestine is present, widen it a little to make it easier for food to pass through.

Are there types of enteroscopy? Let's see.

Yes, there are several ways to do this test. Let's understand them simply.

There are two types depending on how the device is inserted.

1. Upper Enteroscopy (Oral Method): In this, the instrument is inserted through the mouth, passed through the esophagus into the stomach, and from there passed down the small intestine.

2. Lower Enteroscopy (rectal method): In this, the instrument is inserted through the anus, passed through the large intestine, and examined from the lower end of the small intestine up.

Types based on how the device advances along the intestine

Various techniques are used to advance this device into the intestine.

• Double balloon: This is a very interesting method. The device has two balloons. When one balloon is inflated and gets stuck in one place in the intestine, the other one moves forward. Then when it is inflated, the air goes out. It moves forward like a caterpillar.
• Single balloon method: In this method, a single balloon is used to push the device forward.
• Spiral overtube (spiral method):In this, the spiral part at the end of the device is rotated, like a screw, and the device is moved forward along the intestine.

Your doctor will decide which of these methods is right for you, based on your condition and the area to be examined. These tests are usually performed by gastroenterologists.

What happens before and during this test?

How do you prepare before the test?

Your preparation depends on whether the test is done orally (upper) or rectally (lower).

• If done through the mouth (Upper Enteroscopy): You will be advised to stop eating and drinking completely for a few hours before the test, as it is essential for the test to be clear and the stomach and intestines to be empty.
• If it is done through the rectum (Lower Enteroscopy): This requires a bowel prep . You will be given a special liquid to drink. When you drink it, your stomach will be thoroughly cleansed and your intestines will be completely cleansed.
• Other tips: If you are taking any medications, such as blood thinners, be sure to tell your doctor. They may ask you to stop taking them a few days before the test.

What happens during the test?

This test usually takes between 45 minutes and 2 hours . You will not feel any pain during this time.

1. First, you will be given anesthesia or a sedative . This will help you to be either completely asleep during the test or to remain relaxed without feeling anything.

2. If done orally, a medicine is sprayed to numb the throat.

3. The doctor then carefully inserts the device through the mouth or rectum and slowly advances it along the colon.

4. The images from the device's camera are displayed on a large screen. The doctor looks at them while performing the examination.

5. If you see a problem area, you can take a tissue sample (biopsy) or perform other treatment right away, if necessary.

What can you expect after an enteroscopy?

This is usually done on an outpatient basis. This means you can go home the same day. But remember, you may feel drowsy or intoxicated due to the sleeping pills you are given.

There may be some minor discomfort after the test. These usually disappear completely within a day or two.

Is there a risk in this? When should I talk to the doctor?

Enteroscopy is generally a very safe procedure, but as with any medical procedure, there are some small risks.

• Complications from anesthesia
• Internal bleeding
• Pancreatitis
• Perforation of the tissue through which the device has passed - This is very rare.
• Paralytic ileus (temporary stoppage of bowel function)

Your doctor will call you to discuss the results of the test or arrange for you to come in on a different day. They will explain what the test found and what to do next.