Abstract
Capsule endoscopy of the gastrointestinal tract is an innovative technology that serves to replace conventional endoscopy. Wireless capsule endoscopy, which is mainly used for small bowel examination, has recently been used to examine the entire gastrointestinal tract. This method is promising for its usefulness and development potential and enhances convenience by reducing the side effects and discomfort that may occur during conventional endoscopy. However, capsule endoscopy has fundamental limitations, including passive movement via bowel peristalsis and space restriction. This article reviews the current scientific aspects of capsule endoscopy and discusses the pitfalls and approaches to overcome its limitations. This review includes the latest research results on the role and potential of capsule endoscopy as a non-invasive diagnostic and therapeutic device.
Highlights
Since capsule endoscopy was introduced in the early 2000s, capsule endoscopy has played an important role in evaluating small intestinal lesions [1]
Capsule endoscopy is recommended as the first-line test for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding
Magnetic assisted capsule endoscopy (MACE) is an examination tool that observes the gastrointestinal tract by control the location of the capsule endoscope swallowed by the patient using a magnetic field in real-time
Summary
Since capsule endoscopy was introduced in the early 2000s, capsule endoscopy has played an important role in evaluating small intestinal lesions [1]. Capsule endoscopy is recommended as the first-line test for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. It is effectively used as a diagnostic tool for small bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease, small bowel tumor, celiac disease, unexplained abdominal pain, and diarrhea [2,3,4]. (2) Unlike conventional endoscopes, air cannot be adequately inflated, limiting sufficient observation of the gastrointestinal tract. (3) Due to the device’s limitation in the form of a small pill, effective optical technology cannot be applied. (4) The quality of the examination is determined by the condition of the intestinal tract, such as poor bowel preparation or air bubbles. There are still shortcomings that need to be addressed. (1) First, the capsule endoscope cannot be positioned as intended by the examiner. (2) Unlike conventional endoscopes, air cannot be adequately inflated, limiting sufficient observation of the gastrointestinal tract. (3) Due to the device’s limitation in the form of a small pill, effective optical technology cannot be applied. (4) The quality of the examination is determined by the condition of the intestinal tract, such as poor bowel preparation or air bubbles. (5) Procedures such as biopsy or hemostasis are not possible. (6) There is a risk of capsule retention. (7) It takes considerable time and effort to interpret after the test is performed
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