A small bowel pouch is created surgically to serve as a stool reservoir for people whose large bowel has been completely removed. The pouch is usually located just above the anus, although rarely, it is near an ileostomy. A pouchoscopy is an endoscopic examination of the pouch. It is a simple, recommended procedure that is performed with a slim, flexible tube called an endoscope. This tube has a camera at the tip to provide a close-up view of the inside of the pouch. Biopsies or polyp removal may be performed during this procedure. Pouchoscopy can be performed with or without sedation, as the endoscope only passes a short distance into the bowel. The procedure requires some bowel cleansing for adequate visualization.
How Is a Pouchoscopy Performed?
A small flexible endoscope is passed through the anus into the pouch to allow visualization of the pouch lining.
Why Do I Need a Pouchoscopy?
Patients with inflammatory bowel disease or familial polyposis syndromes require periodic examination of the pouch.
What Are the Potential Complications from a Pouchoscopy?
Complications are rare, but are related to biopsy or polyp removal performed during the procedure, or due to the sedation, if it is used.
What Do I Need to Do Prior to a Pouchoscopy?
Some bowel cleansing is needed before the procedure.
What Happens After the Pouchoscopy?
If you want sedation for the procedure you will need to have a driver with you and you will need that day off work. If you do not want sedation you may return to normal activities immediately. If a biopsy or polypectomy is performed, you will receive the results within the next two weeks.
Make an Appointment
To make an appointment to be evaluated for a pouchoscopy or other GI procedure, call 888-229-7408.