Journal of Gastrointestinal & Digestive System
Open Access

The endoscopic diagnosis of small bowel tumors represents a challenging yet crucial aspect of gastrointestinal medicine. The small bowel, also known as the small intestine, is a lengthy and convoluted organ located between the stomach and the large intestine. Due to its anatomical intricacies and limited accessibility, the diagnosis of small bowel tumors has historically been a complex task. However, advancements in endoscopic techniques have significantly improved the ability to detect and diagnose small bowel tumors, providing a less invasive alternative to traditional diagnostic methods. Small bowel tumors are relatively rare compared to tumors in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, such as the colon or stomach. Nevertheless, their diagnosis is of paramount importance, as these tumors can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Endoscopic procedures have emerged as valuable tools in the diagnostic armamentarium, enabling clinicians to visualize and obtain tissue samples from the small bowel. One of the primary endoscopic modalities employed in the diagnosis of small bowel tumors is video capsule endoscopy (VCE). This non-invasive technique involves the ingestion of a small capsule equipped with a camera that captures images as it traverses the digestive tract.

VCE is particularly useful for evaluating the mucosa of the small bowel, where other endoscopic methods may have limitations. It allows for the identification of suspicious lesions, such as tumors, ulcers, or areas of bleeding, and provides valuable information for further diagnostic and therapeutic planning. Double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) is another endoscopic approach specifically designed for the small bowel. This technique employs a specialized endoscope with two balloons—one at the tip and one at the base—to facilitate the advancement of the scope through the small intestine. DBE allows for both visualization and intervention, including the ability to obtain biopsies or resect small lesions. It is particularly valuable when additional diagnostic information or therapeutic interventions, such as polypectomy or hemostasis, are needed .Push enteroscopy and spiral enteroscopy are alternative methods that can be used to visualize the small bowel, though they are less commonly employed compared to VCE and DBE. Push enteroscopy involves the advancement of a flexible endoscope as far as possible into the small intestine without the use of a balloonassisted technique. Spiral enteroscopy utilizes a spiral overtube, allowing for greater insertion depth compared to push enteroscopy. The endoscopic diagnosis of small bowel tumors is often challenging due to the subtle nature of early lesions and the limited accessibility of the small bowel. Tumors may present with nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or gastrointestinal bleeding, making it essential to utilize endoscopic techniques for accurate diagnosis. In cases where a small bowel tumor is suspected based on symptoms, imaging studies, or other diagnostic tests, endoscopy plays a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis and guiding further management. The endoscopic diagnosis of small bowel tumors is a vital aspect of gastrointestinal medicine, considering the challenges associated with detecting lesions in this anatomically complex region. Small bowel tumors are relatively rare compared to tumors in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, but their diagnosis is crucial due to associated morbidity and mortality. Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) has revolutionized the diagnosis of small bowel tumors by offering a non-invasive method to visualize the entire small intestine. VCE involves swallowing a small capsule equipped with a camera that captures images as it passes through the digestive tract. This technique enables the detection of suspicious lesions, such as tumors, ulcers, or areas of bleeding, providing valuable diagnostic information. Double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) is another valuable tool for the endoscopic diagnosis of small bowel tumors. DBE allows for both visualization and intervention in the small bowel, including the ability to obtain biopsies or resect small lesions.

It is particularly useful when additional diagnostic information or therapeutic interventions are needed. Other endoscopic methods, such as push enteroscopy and spiral enteroscopy, may also be employed in specific cases. These techniques play a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis of small bowel tumors and guiding further management strategies.