Enteroscopy
What is an Enteroscopy?
An Enteroscopy is a type of endoscopic procedure in which a lengthy, thin, bendable scope, or tube, is inserted through the mouth and progressed down into the second portion of the small intestine (called the duodenum). The scope has a light and a camera on the end of it that allow the physician to see the interior of the esophagus, stomach, and small bowel.
An enteroscopy procedure may be suggested to determine the cause of gastrointestinal problems such as stomach pain, bleeding, or concerning x-ray results.
What’s the Difference Between an Enteroscopy and an Endoscopy?
The primary difference between an endoscopy and an enteroscopy is the section of the digestive tract they examine. Both procedures use a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope), but an endoscopy typically inspects the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
In contrast, an enteroscopy is designed to visualize the small intestine, which is deeper within the digestive system and harder to reach. Enteroscopy is often employed when other diagnostic tests like endoscopy or colonoscopy have failed to provide clear results, or when there is a suspected issue in the small intestine.
Why Would I Need an Enteroscopy?
Enteroscopy procedures detect disorders or abnormalities in the small bowel. Some conditions include:
Abnormal growths or tumors in the small bowel
Bleeding
Unexplained diarrhea
Unusual x-ray results
Depending on what your GI provider is looking for, there are other options. For many patients, enteroscopy is the best method to diagnose and manage concerns in the upper GI tract, especially if they concern the second portion of the small intestine. Otherwise, there is an x-ray procedure known as an upper GI/small bowel follow-through that can also be used to diagnose issues in your upper digestive tract. This is, however, only a diagnostic exam. Treatment of these findings will require an enteroscopy and/or surgery.
What Do I Need to Know About Prepping for my Enteroscopy?
Your Mesa GI provider will give you instructions regarding the preparations needed prior to your enteroscopy procedure. Many patients are able to eat as normal the day before their procedure.
You will have to avoid consuming anything by mouth after 12:00 a.m. (midnight) the day of their enteroscopy (apart from medications). Please listen to and follow the instructions you are given by our team – it’s very important.
You will also receive more guidelines regarding your medications. In many cases, your medications can continue as usual. However, in select individuals, especially patients who take anti-coagulants and who have diabetes, special directions will be administered.
What Happens During My Enteroscopy?
Arrive 1–1.5 hours early to complete paperwork and prep for the procedure.
Change into a gown; IV catheter inserted for sedation. Monitoring equipment will track vital signs.
During the procedure:
Lie on your left side; sedation given in small doses for safety.
Endoscope inserted through mouth and advanced through esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.
Air may be added and fluids suctioned to improve visibility.
Possible actions: biopsy, polyp removal, or bleeding control.
Procedure duration: 15–45 minutes.
Afterward:
You’ll recover in a monitored area for 45–60 minutes.
You cannot drive, work, or sign documents for the rest of the day.
Most patients can eat and drink normally post-discharge; detailed instructions will be provided.
Results:
Your Mesa GI provider will review the findings with you.
Due to sedation, consider having someone with you to hear the results and to drive you home.
A printed report will be given; biopsy results typically take about 7 days.
Is an Enteroscopy Risky?
An Enteroscopy is generally safe, with complications in only about 1% of cases.
Most complications are not life-threatening but may require hospitalization or surgery.
Sedation risks include breathing issues, heart rhythm or blood pressure changes, allergic reactions, and vein irritation.
Bleeding may occur with biopsies, polyp removal, or dilation, but usually doesn’t require hospitalization.
Perforation (a tear in the GI tract) is rare but serious, possibly requiring surgery.
Call your doctor immediately if you experience worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever afterward.
Rarely, abnormalities (including cancer) may be missed, so regular follow-ups and reporting symptoms are important.
A consent form will be reviewed with staff before the procedure; discuss any concerns with your Mesa GI doctor.
What Should I Avoid After my Enteroscopy?
Wait until your doctor gives permission before eating or drinking and be sure to follow any medication instructions provided. Also, avoid any strenuous physical activity. If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent bleeding, or a fever, contact our Mesa GI office immediately.
Who Should Avoid Having an Enteroscopy?
An Enteroscopy might not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions or risk factors that could lead to complications. Patients with the following may face increased risks due to sedation and the procedure itself:
Severe heart or lung disease
Uncontrolled bleeding disorders
Recent heart attacks
Additionally, individuals with anatomical abnormalities or strictures in the digestive tract might also be advised against it. Discuss any existing health conditions or concerns with your Mesa GI provider to determine if an Enteroscopy is right for you.
Our Services
Mesa Gastrointestinal Associates
603 W Baseline Road, Ste 200
Mesa, Arizona 85210
Opening Hours
Monday – Thursday
8:00AM – 5:00PM
Friday
8:00AM – 4:00PM
Contact Mesa GI
If it’s been suggested to you that you get an enteroscopy, you can contact one of our GI specialists at Mesa GI to learn more. Our aim is to help our patients achieve better digestive health and an overall improvement in their quality of life. To make an appointment at Mesa GI, call 480-461-1088 today.