All three types can either be inserted via the mouth or the rectum, depending on the site of concern.
Double Balloon Enteroscopy (DBE)
Also known as a push-and-pull enteroscopy, the two balloons are inflated and deflated consecutively to allow the endoscope to advance deep into the small intestine.
Single Balloon Enteroscopy (SBE)
This procedure is similar to but less complicated than a double balloon enteroscopy. The single balloon inflates and anchors itself to the intestinal wall, which allows for the endoscope to advance. This process is repeated until the endoscope reaches where it needs to go.
Both types of balloon enteroscopy pleats the small intestines over and over, thereby shortening it which allows a 2-metre endoscope to explore the 6 metre long small intestine.
Spiral Enteroscopy
A rotating spiral is used to allow the endoscope to move back and forth in the small intestine.
There are various reasons why your gastroenterologist may choose to perform a deep enteroscopy on you. If you have the following issues, you may be required to undergo a deep enteroscopy: