[1] It is novel in the field of diagnostic gastroenterology as it is the first endoscopic technique that allows for the entire gastrointestinal tract to be visualized in real time.

[3] The enteroscope and overtube are inserted through the mouth and passed in conventional fashion (that is, as with gastroscopy) into the small bowel.

Using the assistance of friction at the interface of the enteroscope and intestinal wall, the small bowel is accordioned back to the overtube.

[4] The double-balloon enteroscope can also be passed in retrograde fashion, through the colon and into the ileum to visualize the end of the small bowel.

A 2015 study in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy reported that: "Due to prolonged procedure and air insufflation, abdominal pain can be observed in up to 20% patients.