In this Article

• Introduction to endoscopy
• What is balloon endoscopy?
• Single balloon endoscopy
• Double balloon endoscopy
• What to expect with balloon endoscopy
• What is the future for balloon endoscopy?
• Balloon Endoscopy Index

What is the future for balloon endoscopy?

Balloon endoscopy is revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of small intestinal diseases. Nevertheless, its use is restricted because of the large expenditure of time that is necessary to perform it. Either newer, faster systems will need to be designed or, perhaps, paramedical personnel will be needed to perform the insertions before balloon endoscopy is as commonly performed as other types of endoscopy. For now, when there is concern about disease in the small intestine, wireless capsule endoscopy often is performed first. Then, if abnormalities are found, or if despite a normal capsule endoscopy there still is a strong suspicion that there is disease in the small intestine, balloon endoscopy is performed.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Colonoscopy - Learn about the colonscopy procedure, what it is, why it is performed, preparation, complications, alternatives and the after effects of the screening exam on MedicineNet.com
• Abdominal Pain - Learn about abdominal pain (pain in the stomach / abdomen) including causes, symptoms, how abdominal pain is diagnosed, and how abdominal pain is treated.
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