RETROGRADE BALLOON ENTEROSCOPY

What is a retrograde balloon enteroscopy?
A retrograde balloon enteroscopy uses a special camera called an enteroscope – a long, thin flexible tube with a camera, light at the tip and balloon towards the end – which is passed through the anus and into the large and then the small bowel. The retrograde balloon enteroscope allows the specialist to perform a detailed examination of the small bowel, much further into the gastrointestinal tract than a colonoscopy, as well as perform procedures such as biopsies, removal of polyps and treatment of bleeding.

Why do I need a retrograde balloon enteroscopy?
A retrograde balloon enteroscopy is very similar to having a colonoscopy (which you have very likely had before), however uses a much longer scope and goes deeper into the small bowel. Retrograde balloon enteroscopy can detect inflammation, ulcers and abnormal growths, however is typically used to treat bleeding in the small bowel. The procedure can also be used to look for cancer and can help to work out the cause for unexplained changes in bowel habit.

How is a retrograde balloon enteroscopy performed?
A retrograde balloon enteroscopy is usually performed under a light anaesthetic and is not painful. As a result, you will not be able to drive for 24 hours or operate machinery after the procedure is complete. You will need someone to drive you to and from your procedure.

A thorough inspection of the colon and small bowel usually takes about 45 minutes. A sample of the bowel lining (biopsy) may be taken to allow a review of it under a microscope or polyps (small tissue growths) may be removed.

What are the risks of a retrograde balloon enteroscopy?
A retrograde balloon enteroscopy is a very safe procedure, and complications are rare when the procedure is performed by doctors who are specially trained in this technique. A/Prof Chris Mills is currently the only advanced and interventional endoscopist working in Gippsland and the only endoscopist with the necessary skill to perform retrograde balloon enteroscopy.

Very few people experience serious side-effects from a retrograde balloon enteroscopy. The most common side effect is bloating. Exceedingly rare complications include tearing a small hole in the large or small bowel wall (perforation), bleeding, a failure to complete the procedure, an incorrect diagnosis, a missed lesion or complications of the anaesthetic. Please feel free to discuss any of these complications with your specialist if you would like more information prior to your procedure.

I still have some questions. Where can I go?
For further information, please browse through our Info Section, catch us through our Contact Us page or reach out to our friendly Gippsland Specialist Group staff on (03) 5630 8800.

We also have some other Info Sheets on our website about retrograde balloon enteroscopy that might help - please click here.
To download this Retrograde Balloon Enteroscopy Information page as a pdf - please click here.