Clinical application of video capsule endoscopy.
BACKGROUND
Non-invasive imaging of the complete small bowel has become possible with the recently available video capsule endoscopy technique. The aim of this study was to review and assess the possibilities and limitations of the clinical application of video capsule endoscopy.


METHODS
Literature review.


RESULTS
Video capsule endoscopy is a new promising technique with good to excellent visualization of the mucosa of the small bowel. It has a high diagnostic yield in patients with occult gastrointestinal blood loss (OGIB) and Crohn disease (CD). Several other indications need further study. Compared to small-bowel X-ray and push enteroscopy, diagnostic yield appears to be superior. Video capsule endoscopy is very well tolerated by patients. Its most important limitation is the impossibility of taking biopsies and therapeutic interventions.


CONCLUSIONS
Video capsule endoscopy is a promising new diagnostic tool for small-bowel disease.
van Tuyl
S A C
SA
Dept. of Gastroenterology, St. Antonius Hospital Nieuwegein, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands.
Stolk
M F J
MF
Timmer
R
R
D002214:Capsules; D003424:Crohn Disease / Q000175:diagnosis; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal / Q000379:methods*; D006471:Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D005772:Gastrointestinal Transit; D006801:Humans; D007410:Intestinal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D014741:Video Recording
D002214:Capsules