Capsule endoscopy is a new method of assessing small bowel disease. Current literature has identified a role in obscure gastrointestinal bleeding and evidence for its use in patients with inflammatory bowel disease is increasing. Use in other settings such as surveillance of polyposis syndromes and assessment of patients with abdominal pain has been proposed. The available literature covering the clinical use of capsule endoscopy is reviewed and avenues of further study are suggested.