Enteroscopes

The various enteroscopic procedures have individual strengths and limitations, and are generally complementary rather than exclusive. WCE is an important modality for making an initial diagnosis and directing subsequent studies to an appropriate area of the intestine. PE can be done in almost any department with a colonoscope, however, somewhat better results may be obtained with an enteroscope. Sonde enteroscopy is an obsolete technology and has little utility at present. DBE appears to be effective for the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of diseases throughout the small bowel. WCE is generally performed before DBE to help identify whether to start from above or below. IOE is the ultimate small-bowel intervention but is not available in all centers. It should be reserved for cases that cannot be managed with other modalities because of the difficulties of the procedure and significant associated morbidity.