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Careful patient selection is a key factor in optimizing the use of device-assisted enteroscopy (DAE) in Crohn's disease (CD). Current technologies include double-balloon enteroscopy and single-balloon enteroscopy which have similar efficiency and safety. DAE allows a variety of therapeutic interventions in the small bowel (SB). These include dilation of SB strictures which achieves promising results and should be preferred to surgery that can still be performed in the event of failure. DAE has developed into an indispensable part of clinical practice in the management of CD patients., Competing Interests: Disclosure H. Neuhaus and T. Beyna have consultancy relationships with Olympus Corporation, Fujifilm and Pentax., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

We herein report a very unusual case of small bowel obstruction caused by phytobezoar in a 69-year-old woman who consumed a large amount of bracken. The patient presented with nausea and vomiting. Computed tomography revealed an air-filled foreign body in the jejunum that had likely caused the small bowel obstruction. A fibrous foreign body diagnosed as a phytobezoar was detected using double-balloon enteroscopy. The obstruction was successfully resolved by crushing the phytobezoar repeatedly using a snare. Small bowel obstructions caused by phytobezoars are often treated with surgical interventions. However, endoscopic fragmentation using a snare is a minimally invasive treatment alternative.

Background: Short-type double-balloon endoscope (DBE)-assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has been developed as an alternative approach for cases with a surgically altered gastrointestinal anatomy. However, this technique is sometimes technically challenging and carries a risk of severe adverse events., Aims: To evaluate the factors affecting the technical success rate and adverse events of DBE-ERCP., Methods: A total of 319 patients (805 procedures) with a surgically altered gastrointestinal anatomy underwent short DBE-ERCP. The factors affecting the technical success rate and adverse events, and the learning curve of the trainees were retrospectively evaluated., Results: The technical success rate of all procedures was 90.7%. Adverse events occurred in 44 (5.5%) procedures. A multivariate analysis indicated that Roux-en-Y reconstruction and first-time short DBE-ERCP were factors affecting the technical failure and adverse event rates, while the modified Child method after subtotal stomach-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy reconstruction was a non-risk factor for adverse events. The trainee caseload did not affect the technical success or adverse event rates significantly; however, trainees tended to perform cases involving the modified Child method after subtotal stomach-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy reconstruction. The success rate of scope insertion increased according to experience; however, the overall success rate did not differ to a statistically significant extent., Conclusion: Short DBE-ERCP was useful and safe for managing cases with a surgically altered anatomy; however, trainees should concentrate on accumulating experience with easy cases, such as those with the modified Child method after subtotal stomach-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy reconstruction or a history of DBE-ERCP.

Competing Interests: None

Objective: To determine whether clinical evaluation reporting using the IDEAL (Idea, Development, Exploration, Assessment and Long-term study) framework improves a novel double-balloon endoscopic stabilization technology., Design: Observational registry 6 month study with no follow-up. Using the Prospective Development Study (PDS) format recommended by the IDEAL collaboration, we report on continued refinement and optimization of an endoscopic stabilization platform during a clinical study conducted by two clinicians from the first case onwards. Key outcomes (ability to reach cecum, inflation of balloons in the sigmoid and ascending colon, and complications) were prospectively reported for each patient sequentially. All changes to technique were highlighted, showing when they occurred and an explanation for the change., Results: 30 colonoscopies were undertaken using the device from April to September 2017. Two patients were excluded from the analysis for protocol deviations. Cecum was reached in 89% of the per protocol population of patients in an average time of 13.5 ± 11 min. Therapeutic zone creation was successful in 89% of patients on the right side of the intestine and 100% in those that reached the sigmoid. There were five deliberate changes in technique that occurred during the study that enabled improved device technical performance. There were no serious complications and one polyp was removed successfully using the device. Clinicians reported endoscope stability and increased visibility of the intestinal mucosa increased when using the device., Conclusion: The IDEAL framework provided a structured reporting of the changes made to technique. Those changes facilitated a device that is safe, has achieved stability with improved performance., (Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Competing Interests: None, (© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Background and Aim: A new short-type double-balloon endoscope (DBE) has been developed with a major focus on facilitating scope insertion to the target site for pancreaticobiliary interventions in patients with surgically altered anatomy. We investigated the performance of this new short-type DBE by comparing it with a conventional DBE., Methods: Data from 885 endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures using balloon endoscopy were analyzed. We used propensity score matching to adjust for differences between patients who underwent ERCP procedures using the new short-type DBE versus the conventional short-type DBE., Results: A total of 163 pairs of patients were selected by propensity score matching. Success rate of reaching the target site was 100% in both the new DBE group and the conventional DBE group (P = 1.0). The new DBE group had a shorter insertion time required to reach the target site than the conventional DBE group (10 min vs. 14 min, P < 0.01). Success rate of pancreaticobiliary interventions in the new DBE group was as high as that in the conventional DBE group (92% vs. 89% P = 0.35). Overall procedure time decreased from 62 min in the conventional DBE group to 55 min in the new DBE group (P = 0.26). No significant differences in the rates of adverse events were observed between the two groups., Conclusion: A new short-type DBE allows faster insertion to the target site for pancreaticobiliary intervention in patients with surgically altered anatomy., (© 2018 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.)

The present review provides an update of the currently available (proto-) types of device-assisted enteroscopy (DAE). In recent years, newly designed double- and single-balloon enteroscopes have emerged. They aim to improve insertion depth into the small bowel, and they also allow more efficient endoscopic interventions. Nowadays, almost all conventional endoscopic procedures are feasible using DAE, opening the door to new indications. Recently, more data have become available on pediatric DAE, DAE-assisted colonoscopy, and DAE in patients with altered anatomy, including DAE-assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and direct cholangioscopy. Although new enteroscopes are being developed, few comparative studies are available in order to define which DAE suits best for each indication. It is the duty of the international endoscopy community to set up clinical research projects to provide answers to these open questions., (© 2017 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.)

Background: Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a rare, autosomal dominant disease clinically characterized by the early onset of many adenomatous polyps throughout the colon, which turn into colon cancer, if left untreated. In FAP patients, polyps can also occur in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, especially in the duodenum. Adenomas beyond duodenum are rare and mostly located in the proximal jejunum and distal ileum. The management of such polyps can be either surgical or endoscopic, depending on the features of the polyp, Spigelman stage and patient's clinical conditions. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of jejunal polyps can be challenging, because of the thinner wall of jejunum, compared to the rest of the GI tract, and of the difficulty of maintaining control and stability of the scope. For these reasons, jejunal perforation is a likely occurrence., Case Presentation: A 65-year-old woman with a stage IV FAP, who had previously undergone abdominal surgery because of her disease, came to our attention because of numerous adenomatous-looking duodenal polyps and a 25 mm lesion in proximal jejunum. According to Spigelman staging system, patient was candidate for surgical resection, in light of the risk of developing small bowel cancer. Despite the benefits of surgery were clearly explained to her, she refused to undergo small bowel resection. Therefore, EMR of the largest duodenal polyp and of the jejunal lesion was planned. After the removal of the jejunal polyp, a small perforation was noted. We were able to rapidly close such perforation by using the Over-The-Scope-Clip system (OTSC, 12/6 t; Ovesco, Tübingen, Germany) pre-mounted onto a double balloon (DB) enteroscope., Conclusions: The endoscopic management of jejunal perforation can be tricky and the placement of traditional through-the-scope clips in a narrow space like jejunum may be difficult and time consuming. This case describes the use of the OTSC system pre-mounted onto a DB enteroscope for the closure of post-EMR jejunal perforation.

A newly developed short double-balloon enteroscope with a working channel enlarged to a diameter of 3.2 mm is a novel innovation in stent placement for patients with surgically altered anatomies. Herein, we report three patients in whom this new scope contributed to an efficient technique and ideal treatment. In the first case, the double guidewire technique was efficient and effective for multiple stent placements. In the second case, covered self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement, which is the standard treatment for malignant biliary obstruction, could be performed in a technologically sound and safe manner. In the third case, SEMS placement was performed as palliative treatment for malignant afferent-loop obstruction; this procedure could be performed soundly and safely using the through-the-scope technique. The wider working channel of this new scope also facilitates a smoother accessory insertion and high suction performance, which reduces procedure time and stress on endoscopists. Furthermore, this new scope, which has advanced force transmission, adaptive bending, and a smaller turning radius, is expected to be highly successful in both diagnosis and therapy for various digestive diseases in patients with surgically altered anatomies.

Background and Aims: To evaluate the outcomes of management for biliary stricture (BS) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using short-type double-balloon enteroscopy., Methods: This study retrospectively evaluated 20 patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiography using short-type double-balloon enteroscopy (sDB-ERC) upon suspicion of BS after LDLT with hepaticojejunal (HJ) reconstruction at Okayama University Hospital., Results: Scope insertion to the HJ site and sDB-ERC succeeded in 85 % (17/20) and 82.4 % (14/17) of patients, respectively. Of 14 patients who required treatment for BS, 11 were successfully treated using sDB-ERC, and 3 were successfully treated using sDB-ERC and rendezvous procedures. Adverse events occurred in 2.9 % of all sessions (2/68). After resolution of BS, 7 patients (50 %) experienced a recurrence. Of these, 6 (85.7 %) were treated with only balloon dilation, and 1 (14.3 %) was treated with both balloon dilation and stent deployment (P = 0.029)., Conclusions: sDB-ERC is a useful procedure for diagnosis and treatment for BS after LDLT with HJ reconstruction. Balloon dilation combined with stent deployment might be recommended for definite resolution of BS.

Objectives: To evaluate the utility and safety of a short-type double-balloon endoscope (DBE) in the treatment of biliary disease in patients with surgically altered gastrointestinal (GI) anatomy., Methods: This study was conducted as a multicenter, single-arm, prospective trial at five tertiary academic care centers and three community-based hospitals in Japan. Consecutive patients with biliary disease with altered GI anatomy were prospectively included in this study., Results: A total of 311 patients underwent double-balloon endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC). The success rate of reaching the target site, the primary end point, was 97.7% (95% confidence interval (CI): 95.4-99.1). The success rate of biliary cannulation and contrast injection of the targeted duct, the secondary end point, was 96.4% (95% CI: 93.6-98.2), and the therapeutic success rate was 97.9% (95% CI: 95.4-99.2). Adverse events occurred in 33 patients (10.6%, 95% CI: 7.1-14.0) and were managed conservatively in all patients with the exception of 1 in whom a perforation developed, requiring emergency surgery., Conclusions: ERC using a short-type DBE resulted in an excellent therapeutic success rate and a low rate of adverse events. This treatment can be a first-line treatment for biliary disease in patients with surgically altered GI anatomy.

Technological advances for visualizing the small bowel have significantly grown over the past few decades. Balloon-assisted enteroscopy has come to the forefront of these innovations, and has been found to be safe and effective in children with small bowel ailments. The expanding body of research into balloon-assisted enteroscopy will continue to refine the current knowledge base of this technique, along with a growing assessment of the long-term benefits of such interventions., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Surgically altered anatomy complicates endoscopic procedures of the pancreaticobiliary tree. Biliary strictures have been managed using percutaneous transhepatic techniques., Materials and Methods: In recent years device-assisted enteroscopy (e.g., double balloon enteroscope [DBE]) has been used to gain access to the common bile duct. The length of the scope and its narrow, 2.8-mm working channel limit the use of standard endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) devices. Therefore, shorter enteroscopes for ERCP have been developed. A fully covered self-expandable metallic stent (fcSEMS) cannot be used through the narrow channel. In conventional anatomy, benign biliary strictures have been treated using fcSEMS, requiring fewer endoscopies compared with multiple plastic stenting., Results: Here we report the first case of fcSEMS deployment through the working channel of a novel, long DBE with a 3.2-mm working channel, and 2 cases with the conventional narrow-channel DBE, using the rendezvous technique, with fcSEMS insertion on a wire running along the enteroscope., Conclusions: These new techniques, here used on benign biliary strictures, are described in detail.

Noninvasive imaging with CT and magnetic resonance enterography or direct visualization with wireless capsule endoscopy can provide valuable diagnostic information and direct therapy. Enteroscopy technology and techniques have evolved significantly and allow diagnosis and therapy deep within the small bowel, previously attainable only with intraoperative enteroscopy. Push enteroscopy, readily available in most endoscopy units, plays an important role in the evaluation and management of lesions located up to the proximal jejunum. Currently available device-assisted enteroscopy systems, DBE, SBE, and spiral enteroscopy each have their technical nuances, clinical advantages, and limitations. Newer, on-demand enteroscopy systems appear promising, but further studies are needed. Despite slight differences in parameters such as procedural times, depths of insertion, and rates of complete enteroscopy, the overall clinical outcomes with all overtube-assisted systems appear to be similar. Endoscopists should therefore master the enteroscopy technology based on institutional availability and their level of technical expertise.

Background and Aims: The advent of capsule endoscopy has revolutionized evaluation of the small bowel. Capsule endoscopy has become the criterion standard as the initial examination to diagnose small-bowel abnormalities, but does not allow for tissue sampling or therapeutic intervention. Deep enteroscopy can be performed by using a balloon-assisted device or a spiral overtube for both diagnostic and therapeutic interventions of the small bowel. Deep enteroscopy is time-consuming and requires special endoscopes and accessories to perform the examination. We studied a novel through-the-scope balloon catheter system used for deep enteroscopy that uses a conventional colonoscope and standard accessories., Methods: We performed a 9-center, retrospective study using a novel TTS balloon system for small-bowel evaluation. The new through-the-scope device is an on-demand balloon catheter that is inserted through the instrument channel of a standard colonoscope and enables deep advancement into the small bowel in either the anterograde or retrograde approach. It consists of a balloon inflation/deflation system and a single-use balloon catheter designed for anchoring in the small bowel. The balloon is inflated to an anchoring pressure in the small intestine, and a repetitive push-pull technique is performed, with the endoscope sliding over the guiding catheter to the inflated balloon. The catheter may be removed and reinserted to allow for therapeutic intervention while maintaining the endoscope position., Results: A total of 98 patients were included; 52% were male, and the mean age was 55 years old (range 15-94 years). Indications included abdominal pain, iron-deficiency anemia, occult GI bleeding, diarrhea, abnormal capsule endoscopy, weight loss, protein losing enteropathy, retained foreign body, altered anatomy ERCP, and small-bowel strictures. Anterograde enteroscopy was performed in 65 patients. The average depth of insertion was 158 cm (range 50-350 cm) from the pylorus. Retrograde enteroscopy was performed in 33 cases. The average depth of insertion was 89 cm (range 20-150 cm) beyond the ileocecal valve. Overall, diagnostic yield was 44%. The average advancement time for the anterograde and retrograde enteroscopy cases was 15.5 minutes. There were no procedural adverse outcomes reported in the 98 cases., Conclusions: The TTS advancing balloon is a safe and effective way to perform deep enteroscopy by using a conventional colonoscope without the need for an overtube. Procedure time is shorter than that of other forms of deep enteroscopy. Diagnostic yield and depth of insertion are on par with other forms of deep enteroscopy. This is the largest reported study using this novel technology to diagnose and treat small-bowel disease., (Copyright © 2015 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: In endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for patients who have undergone a pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) with a Braun anastomosis, two different approaches are available: the afferent-limb route and the efferent-limb route. This study was to clarify the usefulness of a short double-balloon enteroscope (DBE) in ERCP for prior-PD patients, and to reveal which route was optimal for ERCP., Methods: Seventy-two consecutive patients with a prior PD underwent diagnostic or therapeutic ERCP using the DBE. This retrospective study evaluated the outcome of the ERCP and assessed the shape of the DBE by fluoroscopic imaging to compare the maneuverability of the two routes., Results: In 71 patients (99%) the bilioenteric anastomosis was reached and cholangiography was performed. Treatment was required in 59 patients (83%) and was performed successfully in all. Complications occurred in two patients (3%) with cholangitis. In three patients, the afferent-limb route had to be changed to the efferent-limb route in the procedure. A gentler arc-shaped angulation of the DBE was induced using the efferent-limb route compared to the afferent-limb route (128° (n = 42) vs. 113° (n = 15); p = 0.037), and that was also revealed in 11 patients (15%) who underwent repeated ERCP by each route (123° vs. 96°; p = 0.003)., Conclusions: The short DBE facilitates ERCP in prior-PD patients. Particularly, ERCP using the efferent-limb route can achieve a maneuverable procedure without unnecessary stress, such as scope insertion to the sharp-angled afferent limb and the handling of various accessories through the narrow scope channel with a sense of resistance.

Background: Spiral enteroscopy is a recently introduced technology alternative to balloon-assisted enteroscopy for examination of the small bowel., Aim: To compare small bowel insertion depths and procedure duration by spiral enteroscopy and double-balloon enteroscopy performed in the same cohort of patients, in immediate succession, using the same method of insertion depth estimation., Methods: A prospective, back-to-back comparative study was performed in 15 patients. Spiral enteroscopy procedures were performed first and a tattoo was placed to mark the most distal point., Results: Double-balloon enteroscopy passed the tattoo placed at spiral enteroscopy in 14/15 cases (93%). Median insertion depths for double-balloon enteroscopy and spiral enteroscopy were 265cm and 175cm, respectively (P=0.004). Median time to achieve maximal depth of insertion was significantly shorter for spiral enteroscopy compared with double-balloon enteroscopy (24min vs. 45min, respectively; P=0.0005). However, in 14 patients no differences were found in median time to reach the same insertion depth (P=0.28)., Conclusion: Double-balloon enteroscopy achieved significantly greater small bowel insertion depth than spiral enteroscopy. Although overall double-balloon enteroscopy procedure duration was longer, the time taken to reach the same small bowel insertion depth by both spiral enteroscopy and double-balloon enteroscopy was similar., (Copyright © 2015 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is difficult to perform in patients with gastrointestinal tract reconstruction., Aims: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of double-balloon endoscopy-assisted endoscopic papillary large-balloon dilatation for common bile duct stones in patients with gastrointestinal tract reconstruction., Methods: We conducted a retrospective case series with a comparison to historical controls. During the period 2009-2013, 11 postoperative patients underwent endoscopic papillary large-balloon dilatation (Group A). Procedure efficacy and safety were compared with patients who underwent endoscopic sphincterotomy without endoscopic papillary large-balloon dilatation, who served as historical controls (Group B)., Results: Group A consisted of 11 patients (63.6% males, mean age 78±10 years), and Group B consisted of 32 patients (78.1% males, mean age 75±7 years). The stone clearance rate was significantly higher in Group A than in Group B (100% vs. 65.6%, respectively; p<0.05). Median procedure time was significantly shorter in Group A than in Group B (54min vs. 102min, respectively; p<0.05), and the complication rate was not significantly different between groups (18% vs. 15.6%, respectively; p=0.586)., Conclusion: Endoscopic papillary large-balloon dilatation may be an effective and safe treatment procedure in patients with gastrointestinal tract reconstruction., (Copyright © 2015 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Since its introduction in 2001 capsule endoscopy opened up the small bowel for diagnostic approaches followed by double balloon enteroscopy which enabled the endoscopic community to perform therapeutic interventions in the whole small intestine. In this review the scientific developments related to indications, diagnostic yield and complications of the last years between the competing devices double ballon enteroscopy, single balloon enteroscopy and spiral enteroscopy are illustrated.

Background and Aim: We have previously reported excellent cecal intubation rates using a short double-balloon endoscope in patients with a history of incomplete colonoscopy. However, data on the endoscopic treatment of colorectal tumors using a double-balloon endoscope are limited. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic intervention of colorectal tumors using a short double-balloon endoscope., Methods: We analyzed data from a multicenter, prospective study on 110 patients (62 men, median age 66.5 years) who underwent total colonoscopy after incomplete colonoscopy to assess the characteristics of colorectal tumors, endoscopic interventions, and complications., Results: In all, 113 colorectal tumors were detected in 55 patients; 109 of the tumors were adenomas (24 advanced adenomas) and two each were intramucosal and advanced cancers. Locations of the lesions were eight in the cecum, 30 in the ascending colon, 18 in the transverse colon, 12 in the descending colon, 34 in the sigmoid colon, five in the rectosigmoid and six in the rectum. Average tumor diameter was 6.8 ± 6.3 mm. Fifty-nine polypectomies, 22 endoscopic mucosal resections, four hot biopsies, and six cold biopsies were done. All endoscopic interventions were successfully completed and no complications were noted. Two advanced cancers were located in the ascending colon and only a double-balloon endoscope could reach them to take a biopsy sample., Conclusion: Double-balloon endoscopy is effective and safe for endoscopic intervention of colorectal tumors, irrespective of the location, in patients after incomplete colonoscopy., (© 2014 The Authors. Digestive Endoscopy © 2014 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.)

Background: Deep small bowel insertion during double balloon enteroscopy can be difficult to achieve., Aims: To determine the factors influencing depth of insertion during double balloon enteroscopy., Methods: History of abdomino-pelvic surgery, route of insertion, type of enteroscope, age, sedation or general anaesthesia used and gender were considered as potential influencing factors; procedures were categorised accordingly and maximal depth of insertion calculated., Results: At multivariate analysis, maximal depth of insertion was significantly associated with history of abdominal-pelvic surgery (P<0.001), rectal approach (P=0.011), gender (P=0.02) and use of the therapeutic enteroscope (P=0.047). Mean maximal depth of insertion was 266±12cm, 255±9cm (P=0.50), 197±10cm (P<0.0001), 160±12cm (P<0.01) and 103±33cm (P<0.15) when 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 influencing factors were present, respectively., Conclusion: Maximal depth of insertion was significantly influenced by history of abdomino-pelvic surgery, insertion route, gender and type of enteroscope used., (Copyright © 2014 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients with surgically altered anatomy involves challenging procedures for ERCP endoscopists. In these patients, the anatomical structure of the intestine is substantially altered, and an endoscope needs to be inserted into the long afferent limb. Moreover, the papilla is observed in the opposite view from the normal anatomy. Recently, a balloon-assisted enteroscope (BAE) has been developed and made available for use in daily practice. The two types of BAE are single-balloon enteroscope (SBE), which is inserted with one balloon attached to the overtube using a balloon-assisted method, and double-balloon enteroscope (DBE), which is inserted with two balloons, one attached to the overtube and the other attached to the tip of the enteroscope. In addition, short-type DBE (short-DBE) and short-type SBE (short-SBE) with a working length of approximately 150 cm, which could be used with various ERCP accessories, are commercially available or under development. Notably, the success rate of ERCP through coordinated manipulation with a balloon was remarkably improved with the use of BAE, even in patients with surgically altered anatomy. Here, we report the current status and procedures of ERCP in patients with surgically altered anatomy.

In September 2003, a double-balloon endoscope (DBE) composed of balloons attached to a scope and an overtube was released in Japan prior to becoming available in other parts of the world. The DBE was developed by Dr. Yamamoto (1), and 5 different types of scopes with different uses have already been marketed. In April 2007, a single-balloon small intestinal endoscope was released with a balloon attached only to the overtube as a subsequent model. This article presents a detailed account of the development of these scopes up to the present time.

Background and Aim: In therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) using a balloon-assisted enteroscope, each instrument insertion requires a long time, which prolongs the duration of the procedure. We conducted a retrospective single-center study to compare instrument insertability of a double-balloon enteroscope (DBE) with a 2.8-mm instrument channel diameter and a prototype short single-balloon enteroscope (SBE) with a 3.2-mm instrument channel diameter., Methods: We used a stop-watch to measure instrument insertion time from the instrument channel port to the tip of the enteroscope when balloon-assisted ERC was done. The instruments were divided into two groups (outer diameter larger or smaller than 2 mm). Lengths from the instrument channel port to the tip of the DBE (EI-530B; FUJIFILM, Tokyo, Japan) and the prototype SBE (SIF-Y0004-V01; Olympus Medical Systems, Tokyo, Japan) were identical (1680 mm). ERC using DBE was carried out in four cases, as was ERC using SBE., Results: There was a significant time difference (P= 0.001) when using instruments whose outer diameters were >2 mm (53.5 ± 19.0 s in DBE vs 28.4 ± 8.4 s in SBE)., Conclusion: The prototype SBE with a 3.2-mm channel demonstrated not only that many types of instrument can be used, but also that the time required to insert instruments may be shorter than that with DBE with a 2.8-mm channel., (© 2014 The Authors. Digestive Endoscopy © 2014 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.)

Pancreatobiliary disease in patients with altered anatomic intestine is one of the most difficult cases for pancreatobiliary endoscopic therapies and diagnosis. There are two major challenges to overcome to complete the procedure. The first challenge is the deep insertion to the blind end. The second challenge is the endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-related intervention. Impairing either success means the incompletion of the procedure. The double balloon enteroscope (DBE), which has been recently developed, enabled the deep intubation to the blind end. Especially, using the scopes with a short working length allowed us to perform the ERCP-related interventions with a high success rate. Generally, ERCP using double balloon endoscope (DB-ERCP) in patients with altered gastrointestinal anatomy has been established. We introduce our standard technique for DB-ERCP and provide several tips for insuring a successful procedure., (© 2013 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

Background and Aim: In patients with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (HJ with R-Y) and Whipple resection, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) can be challenging. We report our experience with ERCP using balloon-assisted enteroscopy (BAE) (BAE-ERCP) in patients with HJ with R-Y, and Whipple resection., Methods: BAE-ERCP procedures were carried out in 62 patients (HJ with R-Y:Whipple resection=34:28)., Results: Overall, the rates of reaching the anastomosis were 85.3% (29/34) in HJ with R-Y and 96.4% (27/28) in Whipple resection. In terms of HJ with R-Y, insertion success rate by standard single-balloon enteroscopy (SBE) was 89.3% (25/28). Insertion success rate by short BAE, including SBE and double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE), was 50% (3/6). There was a statistically significant difference of insertion success rate between standard long BE and short BE (P=0.021). However, in the Whipple patients, insertion success rate by standard and short SBE was 93.8% (15/16) and 91.7% (11/12), respectively. Initial insertion success rate by short BAE in Whipple patients was significantly higher than in HJ with R-Y (91.7% vs 50%, P=0.045). Therapeutic interventions included dilation of anastomosis stricture, stone extraction, endoscopic mechanical lithotripsy, biliary stent placement, stent extraction, endoscopic nasobiliary drainage, direct cholangioscopy, and electrohydraulic lithotripsy. Our HJ with R-Y series and Whipple series treatment success rate was 90% (18/20) and 95.0% (19/20), respectively., Conclusions: BAE-ERCP enabled ERCP to be carried out in patients with HJ. It is considered safe and feasible. Further experience and device improvement are needed., (© 2014 The Authors. Digestive Endoscopy © 2014 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.)

Background: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of a single-balloon enteroscope (SBE) including a newly developed short SBE (SIF-Y0004) for therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) in patients with Roux-en-Y (R-Y) anastomosis., Patients and Methods: Therapeutic ERC using a SBE was attempted in 19 cases (41 procedures) with R-Y anastomosis after gastrectomy. A standard SBE (working length of 200 cm, working channel of 2.8 mm) was used in 11 cases (Group L), and a short SBE (working length of 152 cm, working channel of 3.2 mm) was used in eight cases (Group S)., Results: Insertion of the scope up to the major papilla was achieved in 79% (15/19) of cases. Average insertion time was 37.0 ± 13.8 min (range, 19-62 min). Bile duct cannulation rate was 79% (11/14) after exclusion of the initial case in which scope exchange was unsuccessful. Average procedure time was78.8 ± 26.9 min (18-119 min). The scheduled therapeutic procedure was completed in 67% (10/15) of the cases (53% [10/19] on an intention-to-treat basis). Cardiorespiratory suppression due to sedative agents resulting in scope withdrawal developed in one procedure (2.4%; 1/41). Although there was no significant difference in therapeutic results between the two groups, the number of procedures was smaller (1.8 ± 1.3 vs 3.6 ± 3.1; P = 0.286) in Group S than in Group L., Conclusions: Therapeutic ERC using a SBE for patients with R-Y anastomosis is considered to be safe and effective. A short SBE appears to be promising for further improvement in therapeutic results., (© 2013 The Authors. Digestive Endoscopy © 2013 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.)

Background/aims: Double balloon enteroscopy (DBE)-assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is frequently performed in patients with surgically altered intestinal anatomy. Moreover, it is also utilized in some cases with pancreatic indications, particularly patients with Roux-en-Y anatomy following Whipple’s procedure or pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy. Here, we present our experiences using DBE-assisted ERCP in patients with Roux-en-Y anatomy, with a focus on pancreatic indications., Methodology: Peroral DBE was attempted in 10 patients with Roux-en-Y anatomy. Conventional ERCP had previously been unsuccessful in all 10 patients. We retrospectively analyzed the relevant data of these patients., Results: Four patients were male (40%) and the median age of the patients was 68 years. A complete evaluation of the afferent loops was possible in eight cases (80%) and selective cannulation was successful in six cases (60%). Therapeutic interventions were tried in four patients, and were successful in all of them. We tried to approach pancreatic duct through pancreaticojejunal anastomosis and performed therapeutic intervention successfully such as removal of pancreaticoliths or dilation of stricture of pancreaticojejunostomy site in two of three patients., Conclusions: DBE-assisted ERCP appears to be a useful tool for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatobiliary lesions in patients with a Roux-en-Y reconstruction, especially those with pancreatic indications.

Aim: To compare the utility of single-balloon colonoscopy (SBC) or double-balloon colonoscopy (DBC) for difficult colonoscopies., Methods: Between August 2008 and June 2010, patients in whom total colonoscopy failed within 30 min of insertion were assigned randomly to undergo either SBC or DBC. No sedatives were used. After the endoscopy, all patients were asked to evaluate pain during the procedure on a 10-point analog scale (1 = no pain; 10 = worst imaginable pain) with a questionnaire. The study outcomes were the cecal intubation rate and time, endoscopic findings, complications, and pain score., Results: The SBC and DBC groups included 11 and 10 patients, respectively. All but one SBC patient achieved total colonoscopy successfully. The cecal intubation times were 18 min (range: 10-85 min) and 12.8 min (range: 9.5-42 min) in the SBC and DBC groups, respectively (P = 0.17). No difference was observed in the prevalence of colon polyps between the SBC and DBC groups (45% vs 30%, P = 0.66). SBC showed advanced colon cancer in the ascending colon, which was inaccessible using conventional colonoscopy. The respective pain scores were 5 (1-10) [median (range)] and 5 (1-6) in the SBC and DBC groups (P = 0.64). No complications were noted in any patient., Conclusion: The utility of single- and double-balloon endoscopy for colonoscopy seems comparable in patients with incomplete colonoscopy using a conventional colonoscope.

Background: Data on overtube-assisted enteroscopy to facilitate ERCP in patients with surgically altered pancreaticobiliary anatomy, or long-limb surgical bypass, is limited., Objective: To evaluate and compare ERCP success by using single-balloon (SBE), double-balloon (DBE), or rotational overtube enteroscopy., Design: Consecutive patients identified retrospectively., Setting: Eight U.S. referral centers., Patients: Long-limb surgical bypass patients with suspected pancreaticobiliary diseases., Intervention: Overtube-assisted enteroscopy ERCP., Main Outcome Measurements: Enteroscopy success: visualizing the pancreaticobiliary-enteric anastomosis or papilla. ERCP success: completing the intended pancreaticobiliary intervention. Clinical success: greater than 50% reduction in abdominal pain or level of hepatic enzyme elevations or resolution of jaundice., Results: From January 2008 through October 2009, 129 patients had 180 enteroscopy-ERCPs. Anatomy was Roux-en-Y: gastric bypass (n = 63), hepaticojejunostomy (n = 45), postgastrectomy (n = 6), Whipple procedure (n = 10), and other (n = 5). ERCP success was 81 of 129 (63%). Enteroscopy success: 92 of 129 (71%), of whom 81 of 92 (88%) achieved ERCP success. Reasons for ERCP failure (n = 48): afferent limb entered but pancreaticobiliary anastomosis and/or papilla not reached (n = 23), cannulation failure (n = 11), afferent limb angulation (n = 8), and jejunojejunostomy not identified (n = 6). Select interventions: anastomotic stricturoplasty (cautery ± dilation, n = 16), stone removal (n = 21), stent (n = 25), and direct cholangioscopy (n = 11). ERCP success rates were similar between Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and other long-limb surgical bypass and among SBE, DBE, and rotational overtube enteroscopy. Complications were 16 of 129, 12.4%., Limitations: Retrospective study., Conclusion: (1) ERCP is successful in nearly two-thirds of long-limb surgical bypass patients and in 88% when the papilla or pancreaticobiliary-enteric anastomosis is reached. (2) Enteroscopy success in long-limb surgical bypass is similar among SBE, DBE, and rotational overtube enteroscopy methods. (3) Referral of long-limb surgical bypass patients who require ERCP to high-volume institutions may be considered before more invasive percutaneous or surgical alternatives., (Copyright © 2013 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Endoscopic investigation of small bowel pathology in children has historically been difficult due to location, length and tortuosity of the small bowel. Recently, video capsule endoscopy and balloon-assisted enteroscopy techniques have evolved as new diagnostic tools and are increasingly used in the paediatric population. In this review the current literature is appraised to define the clinical indications and practical aspects of capsule endoscopy and balloon-assisted enteroscopy in children., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Evaluate the diagnostic and therapeutic utility, safeness, efficacy and complications of double balloon enteroscopy (DBE)., Methods: This prospective, descriptive study of DBE took place between July 2010 and November 2011 at Gastroenterology Service of Hospital Nacional Guillermo Almenara Irigoyen-EsSalud. 33 DBE were performed in 30 patients with a double balloon enteroscope: EN-450T5 Fujinon, under conscious sedation and with previous bowel preparation. All of them signed an informed consent., Results: The mean hemoglobin was 9.16 gr. /dl. 16 patients (53%) had capsule endoscopy previous to the exam. The most frequent indication for DBE was gastrointestinal bleeding of obscure origin. The per-oral route was used in 66.7% of the cases reaching a maximum distance of 206 cm. The mean examination time was 137 minutes. The most frequent finding was vascular ectasia. The diagnostic yield was 57.6% (similar to other published series). The therapeutic usefulness is equal to 45.4%. The therapeutic procedure most used was argon beam plasma (ABP). As published by other authors the exam was well tolerated by all patients with no complications after the procedure., Conclusions: DBE is a secure, useful and efficient technique for the exploration and treatment of small bowel disease, mainly in the cases of gastrointestinal bleeding of unknown origin.

Background: Inadequate reprocessing of double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) or of endoscopic accessories may result in iatrogenic infections and present a risk to public health., Aim: To use microbiological surveillance culture monitoring (SCM) to assess the adequacy of high-level disinfection (HLD) with standard reprocessing procedures of DBE., Materials and Methods: We performed a prospective study on cultures collected from DBEs that had been treated by HLD by an automated endoscope washing machine (AEWM) decontamination cycle. This study included 42 cases with 57 cultures, which were collected consecutively between October 2009 and December 2010. In 31 cases, 31 cultures were collected from oral route DBE (mean patient age, 68·9 years), and in 23 cases, 26 cultures were collected from anal route DBE (mean patient age, 67·9 years). The results obtained were compared with those of our previous study of SCM on gastroscopy (GS) and colonoscopy (CS). The samples were collected by flushing 50 mL sterile distilled water into the suction channel and collecting the flow-through in a sterile container. The samples were then incubated at 37 °C and examined for bacterial growth., Results: Before HLD, the positive culture rate was 83·9% (26/31) for the oral route DBE and 100% (26/26) for the anal route DBE (P = 0·0406). After HLD, the positive culture rate was 12·9% (4/31) for the oral route DBE and 19·2% (5/26) for the anal route DBE (P > 0·05). A linear trend relationship was found between positive SCM and the length and category of diagnostic instruments--GS, CS, oral route DBE and anal route DBE., Conclusions: Surveillance culture monitoring is a useful method to assess the effectiveness of HLD reprocessing of DBE. Machine washing may not achieve complete disinfection. Using AEWM regularly is mandatory to minimize cross-contamination and to ensure quality assurance. Additional procedures are necessary to employ for the longer and anal route DBE., (© 2011 The Authors. European Journal of Clinical Investigation © 2011 Stichting European Society for Clinical Investigation Journal Foundation.)