Double Balloon Enteroscopy (DBE)
OVERVIEW
What is Double Balloon Enteroscopy (DBE)?
Double Balloon Enteroscopy (DBE) is a specialised procedure used to examine the small intestine, allowing access to areas beyond what traditional gastroscopy or colonoscopy can reach. Performed via the mouth or the colon, DBE can examine up to 3 meters of the small intestine, and in some cases, the entire organ. This technique is ideal for detecting conditions like small bowel bleeding, tumors, and unexplained abdominal pain.
Procedure
DBE uses a flexible, long scope with balloons to navigate deeper into the small intestine, allowing for visual inspection, biopsy, polyp removal and other interventions. It typically takes 45–90 minutes, and a sedative is administered for comfort. In rare cases, a general anaesthetic may be used.
Preparation
Fasting: No food for 6 hours before the procedure. Clear fluids may be consumed up to 2 hours before.
Bowel preparation is required for retrograde DBE (via anus) but not DBE via mouth
Special Instructions:
If you are taking MOUNJARO, or WEGOVY, follow a liquid diet 24 hours prior to your procedure.
If you are diabetic or taking blood-thinning medications (Aspirin is fine), please inform our staff
YOUR RECOVERY
After the Procedure
You may feel bloating or a mild sore throat after the procedure.
Avoid driving, operating machinery, or signing documents on the procedure day.
Full recovery is expected within 24 hours.
Leonda Gastroenterology Melbourne
At Leonda Gastroenterology, we are committed to quality endoscopic care with the highest standards of safety and expertise.