Endoscopy 2008; 40(9): 779-783
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1077518
Expert approach

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Double-balloon endoscopy

H.  Yamamoto1 , C.  Ell2 , K.  F.  Binmoeller3
  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
  • 2Department of Internal Medicine, HSK Wiesbaden, Teaching Hospital of the Gutenberg University Mainz, Wiesbaden, Germany
  • 3Interventional Endoscopy Service, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
04 September 2008 (online)

Double balloon endoscopy (DBE) was developed for the examination of the small intestine. DBE together with capsule endoscopy have improved the endoscopic approach to the small intestine, and revolutionized the management of small-intestinal diseases. DBE features not only deep intubation of the small bowel, but also the improved control of the endoscope tip, even in the distal small intestine. This improved control is provided by stabilization from the overtube balloon. In this article, we explain how to use DBE effectively and safely. The basic principles of DBE are discussed as well as proper techniques, tips for effective insertion of the double balloon endoscope, proper indications of DBE, and endoscopic therapies in the small intestine.

References

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H. Yamamoto, MD 

Department of International Research and Education for Endoscopy
Jichi Medical University

Yakushiji
Shimotsuke
Tochigi
329-0498, Japan

Fax: +81-285-440047

Email: yamamoto@jichi.ac.jp