The Evolution of Enteroscopy to Spiral Enteroscopy

INTRODUCTION Endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of small bowel conditions is a challenging area for gastroenterologists. Until recently, it was not possible to access most of the small bowel using endoscopic techniques without concomitant surgery. Capsule endoscopy and balloon-assisted enteroscopy thus represent decisive breakthroughs in this field. Capsule endoscopy allows endoscopic visualization of the entire small bowel but lacks the ability to obtain histological samples and perform endoscopic treatments. With the development of balloon-assisted enteroscopy and most recently, spiral enteroscopy, endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of the entire small intestine are now feasible without operative intervention. As indications expand and caseloads grow, it is important for gastroenterologists to know how these procedures are done and to be familiar with their potential complications.