Question 1

How do I prepare for a Duodenoscopy?

Accepted Answer

Visual examination of the beginning of the small intestine (duodenum) by introducing a tube with a camera through the mouth.

Question 2

What do I need to know before a Duodenoscopy?

Accepted Answer

• **Definition:** Visual examination of the beginning of the small intestine (duodenum) using a tube with a camera inserted through the mouth. • **Fasting:** It is essential to strictly fast (do not ingest solid foods or liquids, not even water) for at least 8 hours before the test. The stomach and duodenum must be completely empty to ensure good visibility and avoid complications. • **Medication:** If you take anticoagulants (such as acenocoumarol/sintrom, warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, dabigatran, heparin, etc.) or antiplatelets (such as aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel, etc.), they usually require suspension before the test (except for ASA 100 mg, which is usually maintained). However, it is **ESSENTIAL** that you follow the exact instructions given by your doctor. Review the consultation report in which the test was requested to confirm the specific guidelines for your case. Also pay special attention if you take diabetes medication. • **Clothing and Accessories:** We recommend coming in comfortable and loose clothing. Before the test, you will need to remove any removable dentures or glasses. It is also advised to remove jewelry and facial or neck piercings to facilitate the passage of the endoscope and avoid any interference. Do not wear nail polish, as a sensor (pulse oximeter) will be placed on your finger to monitor sedation. • **Specific Requirements:** Please do not smoke on the day of the test, as tobacco stimulates the secretion of gastric juices that can hinder the exploration. Since this procedure is usually performed under sedation, it is mandatory to be accompanied by an adult, as for your safety you will not be able to drive or make important decisions for the rest of the day. • **Expected discomfort or pain from the test:** If the sedation is light, you might feel some nausea during the insertion of the tube. After the procedure, it is completely normal to feel slight pain, dryness, or irritation in the throat for 1 or 2 days. It is also very common to experience a sensation of abdominal bloating, fullness, or gas due to the air introduced during the test to expand the intestine and improve visibility.

Question 3

What do I have to do before a Duodenoscopy?

Accepted Answer

• **Definition:** Visual examination of the beginning of the small intestine (duodenum) using a tube with a camera inserted through the mouth. • **Fasting:** It is essential to strictly fast (do not ingest solid foods or liquids, not even water) for at least 8 hours before the test. The stomach and duodenum must be completely empty to ensure good visibility and avoid complications. • **Medication:** If you take anticoagulants (such as acenocoumarol/sintrom, warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, dabigatran, heparin, etc.) or antiplatelets (such as aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel, etc.), they usually require suspension before the test (except for ASA 100 mg, which is usually maintained). However, it is **ESSENTIAL** that you follow the exact instructions given by your doctor. Review the consultation report in which the test was requested to confirm the specific guidelines for your case. Also pay special attention if you take diabetes medication. • **Clothing and Accessories:** We recommend coming in comfortable and loose clothing. Before the test, you will need to remove any removable dentures or glasses. It is also advised to remove jewelry and facial or neck piercings to facilitate the passage of the endoscope and avoid any interference. Do not wear nail polish, as a sensor (pulse oximeter) will be placed on your finger to monitor sedation. • **Specific Requirements:** Please do not smoke on the day of the test, as tobacco stimulates the secretion of gastric juices that can hinder the exploration. Since this procedure is usually performed under sedation, it is mandatory to be accompanied by an adult, as for your safety you will not be able to drive or make important decisions for the rest of the day. • **Expected discomfort or pain from the test:** If the sedation is light, you might feel some nausea during the insertion of the tube. After the procedure, it is completely normal to feel slight pain, dryness, or irritation in the throat for 1 or 2 days. It is also very common to experience a sensation of abdominal bloating, fullness, or gas due to the air introduced during the test to expand the intestine and improve visibility.

General instructions for Duodenoscopy

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