Enteroclysisby Rebecca J. Stahl, MA DefinitionEnteroclysis is a visual exam of the small intestine. The exam is done using a technique called fluoroscopy. This involves using an x-ray unit with a camera and a screen.
Reasons for ProcedureEnteroclysis is used to examine and diagnose conditions that affect the small intestine, such as:
Possible ComplicationsProblems from the procedure are rare. However, all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
Talk to your doctor about these risks before the procedure. What to ExpectPrior to ProcedureYour doctor may:
To prepare for the procedure, your doctor may ask you to:
On the day of the procedure:
AnesthesiaYour doctor may give you a sedative to reduce your discomfort. Description of the ProcedureYou will be asked to lie down on an x-ray table. A numbing medicine will be sprayed on the back of your throat. A thin, flexible tube will then be placed into your mouth. The tube will be gently passed down your throat. The tip of the tube will pass through your stomach to your small intestines. A special dye will be sent through the tube. You may be asked to move your body. This will help coat the walls of your intestine with the dye. The images of your intestine will then be taken. A tube may also be placed in your rectum. The tube will allow some of the contrast dye to come out of your body. This step can reduce bloating in your abdomen. After your doctor has taken all of the images, the tubes will be removed. How Long Will It Take?About 60 minutes Will It Hurt?You will have discomfort when the tube is inserted. You may also have some bloating and discomfort due to the contrast dye. Post-procedure CareAt the Care CenterRight after the procedure, the staff will bring you to the rest room. You will remain at the care center for about 30 minutes. Then you will be able to go home. If you were given a sedative, you will need someone to drive you home. At HomeWhen you return home, resume medicines as instructed by your doctor. Call Your DoctorCall your doctor if any of these occur:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away. RESOURCES:American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy https://www.asge.org National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases https://www.niddk.nih.gov CANADIAN RESOURCESCanadian Association of Gastroenterology https://www.cag-acg.org Public Health Agency of Canada https://www.canada.ca References:Enteroclysis. Lahey Clinic website. Available at:
https://www.lahey.org/Departments_and_Locations/Departments/Radiology/Fluoroscopy/Enteroclysis.aspx. Accessed October 3, 2017. Enteroclysis. Radiopaedia website. Available at:
https://radiopaedia.org/articles/enteroclysis. Accessed October 3, 2017. Last reviewed September 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Daus Mahnke, MD Last Updated: 9/16/2020 | |
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