How Do We Diagnose Short Bowel Syndrome?

We offer a comprehensive range of tests for SBS through our dedicated Neurogastroenterology, Motility and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorder lab, one of only three such facilities in Northern California. Working seamlessly with doctors who specialize in interpreting diagnostic test results for gastrointestinal disorders, we deliver a precise diagnosis for your condition.

You may need one or more tests, including:

• Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan: Using X-rays and special computer software, this test creates two- and three-dimensional images of your intestines. Providing alternative views of your bowel, pancreas, and other organs, CT scans help us examine details that might not be visible through other imaging tests.
• Abdominal ultrasound: Using high-frequency sound waves, this imaging test examines organs and structures in your abdomen.
• Abdominal X-ray: A standard X-ray of your small intestine to identify abnormalities or blockages
• Bacterial overgrowth breath test: Examining gases in your breath can show whether you have a bacterial overgrowth in your intestines, which is common among people who have had bowel surgery or diseases that slow digestion, such as diabetes.
• Barium study: Drinking a special chemical (barium) and tracking its journey down your intestinal tract, this advanced imaging study produces sharp images of your bowels. Learn more about barium swallow testing.
• Blood tests: Using a sample of your blood, we may run a number of tests including:
  • Complete blood count to look for signs of anemia and infections
  • Electrolyte and kidney function panel to look for electrolyte abnormalities and liver issues
  • Albumin tests to assess your nutritional status
• Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy: Examining the entire length of your colon (screening colonoscopy) or just the lower part of your colon (sigmoidoscopy) with the help of a small flexible tube and tiny camera we insert into your rectum (endoscope). Learn more about endoscopy at Stanford Health Care.
• Fecal fat test: Measuring how much fat your body absorbs during digestion by measuring the amount of fat in your stool
• Stool culture: Examining a sample of your stool to test for bacteria, parasites, or viruses in your intestines. A stool culture test can also identify microscopic amounts of blood, white blood cells, and evidence of food intolerances.
• Upper endoscopy: With the help of a small flexible tube and tiny camera we pass through your mouth and esophagus (endoscope), we carefully examine the lining of your stomach for ulcers, inflammation, infection, and cancer. During your upper GI endoscopy procedure, we may also take a tissue sample (biopsy) and examine it under a microscope.