Double-Balloon Enteroscopy (DBE)

A technique developed by Hironori Yamamoto in 2001 for visualisations of the entire small bowel in real time

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What is a Double-Balloon Enteroscopy?

Double-Balloon Enteroscopy or DBE is an advanced endoscopic procedure which allows consultants to visualise and examine the entire small bowel in real time without the need for invasive surgery.

This revolutionary procedure enables diagnosis and treatment of digestive health conditions, and patients who have previously failed colonoscopies or underlying post-surgical adhesions will also benefit from this procedure.

Need to know

What happens during the procedure?

It is normally performed following a finding in the small bowel after a video capsule endoscopy or scan, in order to treat or biopsy. Your consultant will access the small bowel through your mouth or rectum. You'll be asleep for the duration, under general anaesthetic.

The technique involves the use of a balloon at the end of an endoscope (a flexible tube with a high-quality video camera) and an overtube. The tube is passed through the small bowel with the balloon inflated to grip sections of the intestine and shortened by folding it over the endoscope. The test can take up to 2 hours in the endoscopy suite.

How to prepare

You will need to be on a low-fibre diet and increase your fluid intake from two days before the procedure. You will need to be on a liquid diet (no solid foods) from one day before the procedure.

You will also need to take a laxative. You will be able to drink water right up until your procedure.

After your enteroscopy

You should be able to return home after around one hour, depending on the rate of your recovery. You will be unable to drive so should have a friend or relative pick you up so you can be escorted home.

You will be given post-procedure instructions and contact information should you have any questions.

Meet Gastroenterologist Dr Edward Despott

Consultant Gastroenterologist Dr Edward Despott has a wealth of experience in double-balloon enteroscopy to diagnose and treat your digestive health condition. You will benefit from exceptional care at The Wellington Digestive Health Centre, which is equipped to treat the full range of digestive and gastrointestinal diseases.

Read Edward's full profile