New Capsule Endoscopy and Double Balloon Pump Enteroscopy equipment at LUH

Two Consultant Gastroenterologists at Letterkenny University Hospital have demonstrated new technology made possible by fundraising.

Dr Vikrant Parihar and Dr Emer Gibbons showed the new Capsule Endoscopy and Double Balloon Pump Enteroscopy equipment that was commissioned following the funding of €120,000 by the Friends of LUH.

Dr Parihar said that “capsule endoscopy and double balloon enteroscopy are advanced complementary procedures used to examine the small intestine, an area not easily reached with standard scopes.”

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Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a small, pill-sized camera that takes thousands of images as it passes naturally through the gut. It is simple and non-invasive. It can help detect conditions such as Crohn's disease, coeliac disease, small bowel bleeding, ulcers, and even early tumours.

Double balloon enteroscopy is a more specialised hospital procedure. It uses a flexible camera with balloon technology to move through the small bowel. This allows doctors not only to see problems but also to take biopsies or treat issues such as bleeding, strictures (narrowing), or polyps.

These procedures are increasingly important in diagnosing unexplained anaemia, chronic diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and rare conditions affecting the small bowel. An earlier and more accurate diagnosis means patients can receive more targeted and effective treatment.

“Both of these tests are available at the endoscopy unit at LUH,” Dr Parihar added, "We are grateful to The Friends of Letterkenny University Hospital who provided funding for acquiring endoscopes".