What is colonoscopy with double balloon enteroscopy?
Colonoscopy with double balloon enteroscopy is a procedure that is used to examine the small intestines (small bowel). During this procedure, a doctor examines the lining of your small intestine through a flexible tube called a colonoscope. The colonoscope is inserted into the anus and advanced slowly through the colon and into the small bowel. During a double-balloon enteroscopy, balloons attached to the endoscope can be inflated to allow the doctor to view the entire small bowel. If growths, bleeding or other abnormalities are found during the procedure, the doctor may remove the abnormal tissue, take a biopsy or treat the affected area.
To produce the best and most accurate results, your colon must be completely clean. You will drink a special bowel cleansing preparation to help clean out your colon. You will also need to follow a special diet several days prior to your scheduled colonoscopy. Even if your stools are clear, it is important to take all of the colon prep as directed because your body is always making fluid and small polyps can hide behind this fluid.
What happens during a colonoscopy with double balloon enteroscopy?
Plan to spend up to three hours at the hospital the day of your procedure. The procedure itself takes up to 90 minutes to complete. You will have a chance to meet with the doctor prior to the procedure. You will also meet an anesthesiologist who will administer sedation medications during the procedure.
Before the exam:
Your medical history will be reviewed with you by your health care team including a nurse, your gastroenterology physician and an anesthesia provider. An IV line will be placed.
During the exam:
During your procedure, the anesthesia provider will administer medications and monitor vital signs which is a process known as Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC). While most patients sleep through the procedure, some remain awake and aware. The anesthesiologist and/or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) will help determine the appropriate type of drug to be used during the procedure to keep you safe and comfortable. If abnormal tissue or polyps are found, the doctor may remove them through the colonoscope for closer examination or biopsy. Tissue removal is painless.
You may resume most of your regular activities the day after the procedure. However, medication given during the procedure will prohibit you from driving for the rest of the day. You may resume your normal diet, but alcohol should be avoided until the next day after your procedure.
What happens after the exam?
The physician will talk with you about the initial results of your procedure and will prepare a full report for the healthcare provider who referred you for your procedure. You may have some cramping or bloating after the procedure which is normal. Your throat may feel sore for a short time. Any tissue samples or polyps removed during the procedure will be sent to a lab for evaluation. It may take 5-7 working days for you to be notified of the results.
Are there possible complications with colonoscopy with double balloon enteroscopy?
Although serious complications are rare, any medical procedure has the potential for risks. Risks from an upper endoscopy include perforation, or a tear, of the lining of the colon, bleeding from a biopsy site, reactions to medications, 1% chance of pancreatitis heart and lung problems, and dental or eye injuries.
Results from any testing will be sent via mail or the Patient Portal.
