Enteroscopy

The double-balloon enteroscope not only complements the capsule endoscope by treating identified lesions, but also serves as an alternative to its use. It can also be used when the capsule does not detect bleeding lesions that are clinically evident (such as in cases of anaemia), or when examining other small intestine pathologies that were previously inaccessible, unless open or laparoscopic surgery with transmural biopsy sampling is performed.

indicaciones

• Gastrointestinal bleeding of unknown cause
• Treatment of lesions identified in the jejunum-ileum with capsule endoscopy study indications
• Polyposis
• Study of diarrhoea and abdominal pain
• Suspected small bowel Crohn's disease
• Radiological alterations of the small intestine
• Overtube advancement system (with inflated balloons)

Preparation is the same as for a colonoscopy, i.e. it requires adhering to a specific diet and consuming a laxative solution the day before the test.

Fasting for 6 hours before the test is required in order to ensure safe sedation.

The test can be performed on an outpatient basis, under sedation controlled by the anaesthetist; it lasts between 1 and 2 hours, with slight discomfort afterwards due to air insufflated into the digestive tract.

It is performed in the same way as an endoscopy, by inserting the enteroscope through the mouth. In some cases, it must be completed by introducing it through the anus to access the final sections of the ileum.