Capsule endoscopy versus push enteroscopy for evaluation of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding with 1-year outcomes

Dig Dis Sci. 2006 May;51(5):891-9. doi: 10.1007/s10620-006-9350-7. Epub 2006 Jun 7.

Abstract

Because of the low diagnostic yield of standard radiologic tests for identifying sources of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding in the small intestine, we compared wireless video capsule endoscopy with push enteroscopy and small-bowel follow-through. Patients referred to Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona, between August and December 2001 for evaluation of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding were potential candidates. Eligible patients had previously inconclusive endoscopy, colonoscopy, small-bowel follow-through, and other radiologic studies. Participants underwent capsule endoscopy and enteroscopy (within 24 hr). The primary end point was localization of any bleeding source, with 1-year telephone follow-up. Capsule endoscopy yielded positive findings in 10 of 20 patients (11 men; mean age, 69 years), 6 of whom had negative enteroscopy and small-bowel follow-through. No patient with negative findings on capsule endoscopy had positive findings on enteroscopy and small-bowel follow-through. At follow-up, 19 patients reported fewer transfusions, gastrointestinal procedures, and hospitalizations. Capsule endoscopy identified more lesions and improved outcomes.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Capsules
  • Endoscopes, Gastrointestinal*
  • Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal / methods*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / complications
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Video Recording / instrumentation*

Substances

  • Capsules