Enteroscopy in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic Procedures
• Small Bowel Diseases

Background:

• Device-assisted enteroscopy is an emerging endoscopic technique for small bowel evaluation in pediatric patients.
• Existing data on enteroscopy in children is limited, necessitating further review of its benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the diagnostic and therapeutic advantages of device-assisted enteroscopy in pediatric populations.
• To review indications, technical aspects, and potential complications of enteroscopy in children.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of pediatric literature on device-assisted enteroscopy.
• Inclusion of relevant adult studies applicable to pediatric cases.
• Focus on indications, technical considerations, and complications.

Main Results:

• Key indications in children include obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, Crohn's disease, and small bowel polyps.
• High diagnostic yield is observed, but pre-enteroscopy imaging (MR-enterography, capsule endoscopy) is recommended.
• Major complications are infrequent and primarily associated with therapeutic interventions.

Conclusions:

• Device-assisted enteroscopy is a valuable and safe endoscopic modality for pediatric patients.
• Integration with MR-enterography and capsule endoscopy enhances the identification and management of pediatric small bowel conditions.
• The procedure offers a low risk of complications for diagnosing and treating various pediatric small bowel diseases.