All You Need to Know About Endoscopy With Small Bowel Biopsy
At Colorado’s Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates, we specialize in advanced procedures like endoscopy with small bowel biopsy to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal (GI) issues. This specific procedure provides valuable insights into conditions affecting the small intestine. As a result, we can help patients take appropriate steps toward better health. If you’ve been told you need this procedure or are curious about its benefits, keep reading. We outline what it is, how it works, and why our team is the right choice for care in Colorado.
What Is an Endoscopy With Small Bowel Biopsy?
An endoscopy with a small bowel biopsy is a medical procedure used to examine the small intestine and collect tissue samples. The procedure involves inserting a small, flexible tube with a camera, called an endoscope, into the body to view the GI tract’s interior. Using specialized tools attached to the endoscope, we can take tissue samples from the small intestine. Our experts then analyze the biopsied samples under a microscope to diagnose or monitor various conditions affecting the GI tract.
Do You Need an Endoscopy With Small Bowel Biopsy?
This procedure is often recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms that may suggest bowel problems. Let us know during a consultation if you are dealing with:
- Chronic abdominal pain or discomfort
- Persistent diarrhea
- Unexplained nutrient deficiencies
- Unusual weight loss
- GI bleeding
Furthermore, we may recommend an endoscopy with small bowel biopsy to screen or diagnose conditions including:
- Celiac disease
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
- Chron’s disease
- Ulcers
- Abnormal growths or polyps
The Advantages of Endoscopy With Small Bowel Biopsy
Early diagnosis of problematic bowel conditions can lead to timely intervention. Prompt treatment is especially critical for managing progressive diseases effectively. But endoscopy with bowel biopsy features numerous other benefits, such as:
- Accurate Diagnosis – Direct visual access and biopsy offer precise information about the small intestine, providing a definitive diagnosis.
- Minimally Invasive – Despite its thorough diagnostic capabilities, this procedure is minimally invasive and causes little to no discomfort.
- Personalized Treatment Plans – Detailed findings help our doctors develop specific treatment plans to target the root cause of symptoms.
Risk Factors for Endoscopy With Small Bowel Biopsy
An endoscopy with small bowel biopsy is a safe procedure. Our team at Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates takes every precaution to minimize risks, but some patients may experience:
- Minor bleeding at the biopsy site
- Mild sore throat following the procedure
- Low risk of infection
- A tear in the small intestine’s wall, although this is extremely rare
What Does the Endoscopy With Small Bowel Biopsy Procedure Entail?
Before the procedure, most patients must avoid eating or drinking for 6-8 hours. We’ll provide specific instructions during your consultation, but that timeframe is a good rule of thumb. When it’s time to begin, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable and relaxed by administering mild sedation. Your doctor will then guide the endoscope through your mouth, down your esophagus, and into your small intestine. A small tool will collect tissue samples for biopsy. This procedure typically takes about 20-30 minutes. We’ll then let you rest in the recovery area until the sedation wears off.
What to Expect Following Treatment
Recovery from this procedure is typically quick. You may feel temporary discomfort or mild bloating, but both should subside within a day or two. Let us know immediately if you experience severe symptoms like excessive bleeding or persistent pain, but they’re unlikely. We’ll provide guidelines regarding your eating schedule, but most patients can resume their normal diet in less than 24 hours. Your biopsy results may take a few days to come back. However, once we have them, we’ll review the findings and discuss next steps with you.
You Can Count on Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates
Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates combines a deep commitment to patient care with expertise in digestive health. Our team of board-certified gastroenterologists has years of experience performing this and other GI procedures. We use the latest endoscopic equipment to guarantee accurate results while maintaining your comfort. With multiple clinics across Colorado, access to care is likely closer than you think.
Contact Us in Colorado Today
If you or a loved one needs an endoscopy with small bowel biopsy, there is no better clinic to call than Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better digestive health.
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