Enteroscopy is a procedure used to examine the small intestine (small bowel). It may also be called an extended EGD, as the procedure will include examination of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum as well as the jejunum. This test is most often peformed to help diagnose diseases of the small intestines. It may be done if you have:
- Abnormal x-ray results
- tumors in the small intestines
- unexplained diarrhea
- unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding
A thin, flexible tube (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth and into the upper gastrointestinal tract. During a double-balloon enteroscopy, balloons attached to the endoscope can be inflated to allow the doctor to view a large part of the small intestine. Tissue samples removed during enteroscopy are sent to the laboratory for examination. – Preparing for Your Enteroscopy