Frequently Asked Questions
Enteroscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to examine and treat the small intestine using a specialized endoscope.
The main types include balloon-assisted enteroscopy, push enteroscopy, and spiral enteroscopy.
It is used to diagnose and treat bleeding, tumors, strictures, or unexplained abdominal pain in the small intestine.
A scope with an overtube and balloon is inserted through the mouth or rectum. The balloon inflates to advance deeper into the small intestine.
Push enteroscopy involves advancing a longer endoscope manually into the upper small intestine.
Spiral enteroscopy uses a motorized spiral or rotating overtube to move the endoscope through the small bowel.
Yes, moderate sedation or anesthesia is typically used to ensure patient comfort.
The procedure may take 1 to 2 hours depending on the depth of insertion and findings.
Patients are sedated and typically feel no pain during the procedure.
Yes, biopsies, polyp removal, bleeding control, and dilation can be done during the procedure.
Risks include perforation, bleeding, and complications from sedation, though these are rare.
Most patients recover within a few hours and can go home the same day.
Conditions include Crohn’s disease, vascular lesions, tumors, celiac disease, and obscure GI bleeding.
Yes, depending on the approach (oral or rectal), fasting or full bowel prep may be required.
Yes, it is generally covered when deemed medically necessary. Check with your insurer.