Cooper is the only provider in New Jersey to perform double balloon enteroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that may be used to detect the cause of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract or other gastrointestinal issues. The procedure helps doctors get a close look at the hard-to-reach area of the small intestine so they can more accurately diagnose and treat any concerns.
In addition to gastrointestinal bleeding, a double balloon enteroscopy may be recommended for those who have:
- Polyps or tumors in the small intestine
- Crohn’s disease
- Abnormal bowel obstruction
Preparing for a Double Balloon Enteroscopy
Generally, you will be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours before your double balloon enteroscopy. If your procedure involves your colon, you will need to complete a bowel preparation, just as you would for a colonoscopy, to ensure your intestines are empty for the procedure. This preparation involves taking laxatives or drinking a special solution.
You’ll receive clear, specific instructions from your doctor ahead of time, so you know exactly what to do to prepare for your double balloon enteroscopy.
During the Procedure
A double balloon enteroscopy can take up to 2 hours to perform. During the procedure, your doctor will us a special flexible tube called an enteroscope that includes two small balloons. The doctor guides the enteroscope through your mouth or anus and to your small intestine. The balloons are then inflated to anchor the enteroscope in place, allowing your doctor to carefully navigate the small intestine and examine its lining.
The enteroscope is equipped with a camera and a light that helps the doctor see and take pictures of the inside of the small intestine. If needed, the doctor can also perform certain treatments or take small samples of tissue for evaluation by a pathologist.
Will There Be Side Effects Afterward?
If your double balloon enteroscopy involves inserting the endoscope into your mouth and down into your esophagus, you may have a sore throat after your procedure. If your procedure involves inserting the endoscope into your anus to evaluate the large intestine or colon, you may feel some slight bloating, cramping, or gas pains immediately after a double balloon enteroscopy.
You may also experience some side effects from the anesthesia you receive such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness.
Your doctor will go over the possible side effects of a double balloon enteroscopy with you and answer any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure.
Why Choose Cooper for Your Double Balloon Enteroscopy
Cooper’s multidisciplinary team includes gastroenterologists, pathologists, thoracic surgeons, general surgeons, nurse practitioners, and other health care professionals working together collaboratively to provide you or your loved one with the most advanced care possible.
The unparalleled expertise, cutting-edge technologies and advanced approaches to care are designed to keep our patients out of the operating room. In those cases where surgery is needed, Cooper has the expertise to perform minimally invasive procedures.
Contact Us
To learn more about double balloon enteroscopy or to make an appointment, please call 800.8.COOPER (800.826.6737).
Refer a Patient
If you are a doctor who wants to refer a patient for a double balloon enteroscopy, please call 800.8.COOPER (800.826.6737). Please note that double balloon enteroscopy is not available at Cooper’s Mount Laurel location.