A novel diagnostic and treatment strategy for small intestinal lesions in children: hybrid treatment using transumbilical minimal incision surgery combined with double-balloon enteroscopy.

Introduction: Double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) is a useful and feasible modality for evaluating small intestinal lesions, even in children.

Methods: DBE makes it possible to perform biopsy, diagnosis, polypectomy and endoscopic therapies including hemostasis, tattooing and clipping of the small intestinal lesions. However, endoscopic procedures in the small intestines of children are more difficult than in adults, because the intestinal wall is thin and the lumen is narrow. A novel hybrid treatment was developed using DBE for small bowel lesions combined with transumbilical minimal incision surgery.

Conclusion: This hybrid treatment is safe, effective, provides excellent cosmetic results and can be used as an alternative for traditional open laparotomy or endoscopic surgery.