Abstract

The small intestine has been regarded as the most difficult area of the gastrointestinal tract to investigate by endoscopic view. Capsule endoscopy provided a complete evaluation of the small bowel and has become one of the major approaches in diagnosis of suspected small bowel diseases. However, this technique has several limitations, including its inability to perform conventional endoscopic procedures, taking biopsy specimens, and therapeutic interventions. Another novel method, double balloon enteroscopy, introduced by Yamamoto et al. in 2001, makes it possible to overcome these limitations. Since then, several studies have reported diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes. In this brief review, the authors summarized the current clinical outcomes and practical use of double balloon enteroscopy in suspected small bowel disorders. (Intest Res 2007;5:13-18)

• Keywords: Double balloon enteroscopy; Intestine, Small