Small Bowel Video Capsule Endoscopy
Small Bowel Video Capsule Endoscopy
VCE is one of the evolving techniques for the investigation of the small intestine that may not be accessible to conventional endoscopy techniques, such as EGD and colonoscopies. In cases of obscure GI bleeding, VCE is the gold standard examination tool. In the last few years, its use in other diseases, such as IBD, celiac disease, polyps and chronic diarrhea, and in cases of overt GI bleeding has been expanding. Valuable findings not obtainable from conventional endoscopy can be gained from VCE. This can include small bowel telangiectasia, which can be the etiology of IDA. In addition, ulcers, polyps and mucosal changes, such as in the case of celiac disease, can be detected.
Capsule retention is one of the main limitations of VCE. Although it is not common, careful assessment, potentially including patency capsule, before performing VCE should be undertaken.
Video capsule is contraindicated in cases of patients with a high-risk of intestinal obstruction, such as those with a history of abdominal operation, history of radiation or patients using NSAIDs for a long duration.
Expert Commentary
VCE is one of the evolving techniques for the investigation of the small intestine that may not be accessible to conventional endoscopy techniques, such as EGD and colonoscopies. In cases of obscure GI bleeding, VCE is the gold standard examination tool. In the last few years, its use in other diseases, such as IBD, celiac disease, polyps and chronic diarrhea, and in cases of overt GI bleeding has been expanding. Valuable findings not obtainable from conventional endoscopy can be gained from VCE. This can include small bowel telangiectasia, which can be the etiology of IDA. In addition, ulcers, polyps and mucosal changes, such as in the case of celiac disease, can be detected.
Capsule retention is one of the main limitations of VCE. Although it is not common, careful assessment, potentially including patency capsule, before performing VCE should be undertaken.
Video capsule is contraindicated in cases of patients with a high-risk of intestinal obstruction, such as those with a history of abdominal operation, history of radiation or patients using NSAIDs for a long duration.
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