Balloon-assisted enteroscopy (BAE) is an advanced endoscopic procedure that allows for direct visualization, diagnosis, and treatment of abnormalities in the small intestine. Using a specialized endoscope with one or two inflatable balloons, BAE enables deeper access to the small bowel than traditional endoscopy.
Why Riley Children’s Health for BAE?
At Riley Children’s, we are the only pediatric health system in Indiana offering BAE, with expertise in diagnosing and treating complex small bowel conditions in children. Our pediatric gastroenterologists use state-of-the-art technology to perform minimally invasive procedures, reducing the need for more invasive surgery. We also collaborate closely with pediatric surgeons and radiologists for a comprehensive approach to care.
Types of BAE
- Single-balloon enteroscopy (SBE): SBE uses a specialized endoscope with one inflatable balloon on an overtube. By inflating and deflating the balloon, the endoscope is advanced in a stepwise manner to navigate the small intestine. It is effective for both diagnosis and treatment of small bowel disorders and provides comparable outcomes to double-balloon enteroscopy.
- Double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE): DBE employs two balloons—one on the endoscope and one on the overtube—to create a 'push-pull' technique that enhances deep insertion into the small bowel. Like SBE, DBE is highly effective for both diagnosis and treatment of small bowel disorders.
What is the difference between SBE and DBE?
Both SBE and DBE are effective methods for BAE, providing deep access to the small intestine with similar success rates. This makes both excellent options for BAE.
Why might my child need BAE?
BAE is used to diagnose and treat a variety of small bowel conditions, including:
- Unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding
- Polyposis syndromes, such as Peutz-Jeghers syndrome or juvenile polyposis syndrome
- Small bowel Crohn’s disease, including strictures and ulcerations
- Intestinal tumors or abnormal growths
- Foreign body retrieval from the small intestine
- Chronic abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, and malabsorption
What to Expect
What to Expect
- Preparation: Your child will be placed under general anesthesia for comfort and safety. Bowel preparation may be required depending on the indication for the procedure.
- Procedure: The endoscope is inserted either through the mouth or the rectum depending on indication and is advanced into the small intestine using the balloon system. The physician may take biopsies, remove polyps, dilate narrowing, or perform other interventions as needed.
- Recovery: The procedure typically lasts 1-2 hours, with most children going home the same day. Mild throat discomfort or bloating may occur but usually resolve quickly.
Key Points to Remember
Key Points to Remember
- BAE is the most advanced endoscopic technique for accessing the small intestine, allowing for both diagnosis and treatment without the need for surgery.
- Riley Children’s is the only pediatric health system in Indiana offering BAE, with a dedicated pediatric advanced endoscopy program.
- BAE can be performed via the mouth or the rectum, depending on the location of the small bowel condition.
- Recovery is generally quick, and most children can resume normal activities within a day.
Locations
Locations
Locations
In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.