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Capsule Endoscopy in Patients with Implantable Electromedical Devices is Safe
Lucinda A Harris1, Stephanie L Hansel, Elizabeth Rajan
1Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic, 13400 East Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA.
Gastroenterology Research and Practice
|May 28, 2013
Summary
Video capsule endoscopy (CE) is safe for patients with implantable electromechanical devices (IEDs), including pacemakers and ICDs. However, LVADs may interfere with image acquisition, requiring careful lead positioning.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Implantable electromechanical devices (IEDs) were previously considered a contraindication for video capsule endoscopy (CE).
- Safety concerns existed regarding potential interference between IEDs and CE procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety of performing CE in patients with IEDs.
- To determine if IEDs impact the quality of images captured during CE.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 118 CE studies in 108 patients with IEDs (pacemakers, ICDs, LVADs) at Mayo Clinic (2002-2010).
- Review included demographic data, preparation methods, and study outcomes.
- Post-procedure assessment of IED function and capsule image quality.
Main Results:
- CE did not interfere with the function of pacemakers, ICDs, or LVADs.
- Pacemakers and ICDs did not appear to affect capsule image acquisition.
- Two patients with LVADs experienced interference with capsule image acquisition.
- One patient with an ICD had a temporary loss of capsule imaging due to a recorder defect.
Conclusions:
- CE is generally safe for patients with IEDs, including pacemakers, ICDs, and LVADs.
- Pacemakers and ICDs do not typically interfere with CE image acquisition.
- LVADs may interfere with CE image quality; positioning capsule leads away from the device is recommended for reliable imaging.
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