Indications, Contraindications, and Considerations for Video Capsule Endoscopy

Jacquelyn G Bolwell; Daniel Wild

doi:10.1016/j.giec.2020.12.002

Indications, Contraindications, and Considerations for Video Capsule Endoscopy

Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am. 2021 Apr;31(2):267-276. doi: 10.1016/j.giec.2020.12.002. Epub 2021 Feb 15.

Authors

Jacquelyn G Bolwell¹, Daniel Wild²

Affiliations

¹ Duke University Medical Center, 1151 Duke South, Yellow Zone, Box 3534, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
² Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA. Electronic address: daniel.wild@duke.edu.

PMID: 33743925
DOI: 10.1016/j.giec.2020.12.002

Abstract

Video capsule endoscopy is indicated in a broad range of clinical settings, most commonly in evaluating suspected small bowel bleeding. It is also useful in diagnosing Crohn's disease and monitoring patients with known Crohn's. Video capsule endoscopy has a role in evaluating patients with refractory celiac disease symptoms and in surveying patients with polyposis syndromes. The only absolute contraindication to video capsule endoscopy is luminal gastrointestinal tract obstruction. Despite manufacturer statement, video capsule endoscopy can be used safely in patients with implantable cardiac devices including pacemakers, defibrillators, and ventricular assist devices.

Keywords: Contraindications; Indications; Video capsule endoscopy.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Capsule Endoscopy*
Celiac Disease* / diagnosis
Contraindications
Crohn Disease* / diagnostic imaging
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / diagnosis
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / etiology
Humans