Single-balloon Enteroscopy

Also known as: balloon assisted enteroscopy, single-balloon endoscopy.

What is single-balloon enteroscopy?

Enteroscopy is a procedure used to examine the intestines using an endoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube with a light and a camera on the end. With single-balloon enteroscopy, a second tube placed over the first one has a balloon that widens the intestines, allowing the endoscope to advance further into the intestines.

What happens during the procedure?

The patient is given medication to relax and then sleep. Once the patient is sleeping, the endoscope is inserted through the mouth and into the intestines. Then the overtube with the balloon is inflated in order to allow the endoscope to advance further into the intestines. The procedure is repeated as necessary to allow the endoscope to advance through the intestines.    

Is any special preparation needed?

You may need to avoid food, drink and certain medication before single-balloon enteroscopy. You may also need to completely empty the colon by using an enema or other means prior to the procedure.

What are the risk factors?

Bleeding, infection or damage to the intestines or surrounding organs are possible risks of single-balloon enteroscopy.

Reviewed by: Carrie Firestone Baum, MD

This page was last updated on: April 29, 2021 02:57 PM