Characterization of anal double balloon endoscopy in the dog

Retrograde (anal) exploration of the canine small intestine by conventional endoscopy is restricted to the ileum, but double balloon endoscopy (DBE) has recently been validated using the oral approach. In this study, anal DBE was performed on nine healthy dogs to characterize the efficiency, exploration dynamics and safety of the technique. DBE was successful in all dogs; the average estimated insertion depth of the endoscope was about 2 m and took approximately 1 h to achieve. No complications or related adverse clinical effects were observed, and pancreatitis did not occur following the procedure. Anal DBE is viable and safe in the dog within the limits of the study, and has the potential to facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, not only in portions of the colon and ileum, but also in portions of the distal jejunum.