Dushyant Singh, MD FACP
Trusted care for all digestive conditions, with a focus on nutrition and wellness.
Dr. Dushyant Singh, board-certified gastroenterologist, brings years of experience and a passion for healing. He is dedicated to personalized care, strong patient relationships, and holistic digestive health.
Small Bowel Follow-Through at Tulsa Gastrointestinal Consultants (TGiC)
At Tulsa Gastrointestinal Consultants (TGiC), we specialize in providing advanced diagnostic services to help you maintain optimal digestive health. One of the key procedures we offer is the Small Bowel Follow-Through (SBFT), a safe and effective imaging test designed to evaluate the small intestine. If you’ve been experiencing unexplained abdominal pain, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal symptoms, this procedure can help identify the cause and guide your treatment plan.
Call us today at (918) 438-7050 to schedule your consultation!
What is a Small Bowel Follow-Through?
A Small Bowel Follow-Through is a specialized X-ray procedure that allows our team to examine the structure and function of your small intestine. During the test, you’ll drink a contrast material (usually barium), which coats the lining of your small bowel. As the contrast moves through your digestive system, a series of X-rays are taken to create detailed images of your small intestine.
This procedure is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as:
- Crohn’s disease
- Small bowel obstructions
- Tumors or polyps
- Ulcers or inflammation
- Malabsorption disorders
Find out if Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is right for you! Call (918) 438-7050 today.
Why is a Small Bowel Follow-Through Performed?
Your doctor may recommend a Small Bowel Follow-Through if you’re experiencing symptoms like:
- Chronic abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent diarrhea
- Blood in your stool
- Suspected blockages or abnormalities in the small intestine
This test provides clear, real-time images of your small bowel, helping your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Need help preparing? Call us at (918) 438-7050 for assistance.
How to Prepare for Your Small Bowel Follow-Through
Preparing for your SBFT is simple. Follow these steps to ensure accurate results:
- Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your procedure.
- Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking. You may need to adjust your dosage before the test.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment.
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork.
If you have questions about preparation, don’t hesitate to call our office for guidance.
Our team will provide you with detailed instructions to help you prepare. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call us at (918) 555-1234.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The Small Bowel Follow-Through is a painless and non-invasive procedure. Here’s what happens step-by-step:
- Check-In: You’ll be greeted by our friendly staff and guided to the imaging room.
- Contrast Material: You’ll drink a barium-based liquid, which has a chalky texture and mild flavor.
- X-Ray Imaging: As the barium moves through your digestive system, a radiologist will take a series of X-rays at timed intervals.
- Duration: The test typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on how quickly the barium travels through your small intestine.
You’ll be able to sit or lie down comfortably during the procedure. Feel free to bring a book or music to pass the time.
After the Procedure
Once the test is complete, you can resume your normal activities and diet. The barium will pass naturally through your digestive system, and you may notice white-colored stool for a day or two. Be sure to drink plenty of water to help flush out the contrast material.
Your results will be reviewed by our expert radiologists and shared with your doctor, who will discuss the findings and next steps with you.
Is a Small Bowel Follow-Through Safe?
Yes, the SBFT is a safe and widely used diagnostic tool. The amount of radiation exposure during the procedure is minimal and carefully monitored. However, if you are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant, inform your doctor beforehand, as radiation exposure may not be recommended.
Need help preparing? Call us at (918) 438-7050 for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does a Small Bowel Follow-Through take?
The procedure typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on how quickly the barium moves through your small intestine.
2. Will I feel any pain during the test?
No, the SBFT is painless. You may feel slightly full or bloated from drinking the barium.
3. Can I eat before the procedure?
No, you’ll need to fast for at least 8 hours before the test to ensure accurate results.
4. Are there any side effects?
Most patients experience no side effects. You may notice white-colored stool for a day or two as the barium passes through your system.
5. When will I get my results?
Your results will be available within a few days. Your doctor will review them with you and discuss any necessary next steps.