Name of the Procedure:

Endoscopic evaluation of small intestinal pouch (eg, Kock pouch, ileal reservoir [S or J]); with biopsy, single or multiple. Commonly referred to as a pouchoscopy with biopsy.

Summary

A pouchoscopy with biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to visually examine and take tissue samples from a surgically created small intestinal pouch. This pouch can be a Kock pouch, S-pouch, or J-pouch, typically formed after surgeries like a colectomy (removal of the colon).

Purpose

The procedure addresses various issues related to small intestinal pouches, such as inflammation, infection, abnormal growths, or other complications. The primary goal is to diagnose conditions and guide the appropriate treatment by obtaining and analyzing tissue samples.

Indications

• Chronic abdominal pain
• Persistent diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Follow-up on previously diagnosed pouchitis or other complications
• Surveillance after pouch surgery, especially for patients with a history of colorectal cancer

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjusting or stopping certain medications as directed by the physician.
• Completing any required diagnostic tests like blood work.
• Sometimes, a bowel prep might be needed to clear the intestinal tract.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, usually on their left side.
2. Sedation or anesthesia is administered intravenously for comfort.
3. An endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and light, is gently inserted through the rectum into the pouch.
4. The physician examines the pouch and surrounding area, taking images and video as needed.
5. Single or multiple biopsies (tissue samples) are taken using tiny instruments inserted through the endoscope.
6. The endoscope is carefully withdrawn, and the biopsy samples are sent to a lab for analysis.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

A pouchoscopy with biopsy is usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon
• Nurses or medical assistants
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist, if sedation or anesthesia is used

Risks and Complications

• Mild abdominal cramping or bloating
• Bleeding at the biopsy site
• Infection
• Perforation (a rare but serious risk where a hole forms in the intestine)
• Adverse reactions to sedation or anesthesia

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of pouch-related issues
• Early detection of complications, allowing for prompt treatment
• Better management of symptoms and improvement in quality of life

Recovery

• Observation until the effects of sedation wear off (usually 1-2 hours).
• Post-procedure instructions might include dietary restrictions and activity limitations for a short period.
• Mild cramping or bloating may be experienced, but these typically subside within a day.
• Follow-up appointments to discuss biopsy results and further treatment if necessary.

Alternatives

• Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans, though they do not provide tissue samples.
• Blood tests and stool tests, but these are less direct and less conclusive.
• Pros of alternatives: non-invasive options like imaging are generally safer.
• Cons of alternatives: less accurate for diagnosing specific pouch conditions and cannot provide biopsy results.

Patient Experience

Patients typically feel some pressure or mild discomfort during the insertion of the endoscope, but sedation minimizes pain and discomfort. After the procedure, minor cramping and bloating are common. Pain management may include over-the-counter medications as needed. Comfort measures include warm packs, gentle movement, and adequate hydration.