Efficient retrograde enteroscopy using a novel through-the-scope balloon

Excerpt

Deep enteroscopy can be achieved via double balloon, single balloon, and spiral enteroscopy [1]. Drawbacks of these systems include the need for a dedicated enteroscope, and consequently, specialized accessories [2]. In addition, a special skill set is required [3]. A new through-the-scope balloon catheter (NaviAid™ AB, SMART Medical Systems Ltd., Ra’anana, Israel) allows enteroscopy with a standard adult colonoscope. This device permits advancement deep into the small bowel in either an anterograde or retrograde approach. It consists of a single-use balloon catheter which is inserted through the working channel of the colonoscope (Fig. 1). The catheter is advanced ahead of the endoscope, including safely around corners, into the small bowel in a blind fashion. Once ahead of the endoscope, the balloon is inflated, anchors onto the small bowel and acts as a rail on which the endoscope is advanced. The device may be removed from the endoscope’s working channel during procedure to allow biopsy and therapy, and can be again re-inserted to facilitate further advancement.

…