Double-Balloon Enteroscopy

Abstract

Since the introduction of double-balloon enteroscopy 15 years ago, flexible enteroscopy has become an established method in the diagnostic and therapeutic work-up of small bowel disorders. With appropriate patient selection, diagnostic and therapeutic yields of 70% to 85% can be expected. The complication rates with diagnostic and therapeutic DBE are estimated at approximately 1% and 3% to 4%, respectively. Appropriate patient selection and device selection, as well as skill, are the key issues for successful enteroscopy. However, technical developments and improvements mean that carrying out enteroscopy is likely to become easier.

Keywords: Balloon-assisted enteroscopy; Complete enteroscopy; Diagnostic DBE; Double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE); Midgastrointestinal bleeding (MGIB); Therapeutic DBE.