Bowel preparation regimens for colon capsule endoscopy: a review

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Devices
• Endoscopy

Background:

• Colon capsule endoscopy (CCE) is an evolving diagnostic tool for colon evaluation.
• Effective bowel preparation is crucial for CCE's diagnostic yield, impacting stool clearance, bubble reduction, and capsule transit.
• Current preparation protocols show significant variability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze the effectiveness of various bowel preparation regimens for colon capsule endoscopy.
• To identify optimal laxatives and boosters for CCE procedures based on existing literature.

Main Methods:

• An extensive literature search was conducted on PubMed using terms related to colon capsule endoscopy and bowel preparation.
• Twelve studies, encompassing 1149 patients, were included and reviewed for their preparation protocols and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Large-volume polyethylene glycol (PEG) (3-4 liters) was the most frequently used laxative.
• Lower PEG volumes demonstrated comparable efficacy, though further research is needed.
• Sodium phosphate was commonly used as a booster; magnesium citrate and ascorbic acid show promise as alternatives.

Conclusions:

• Bowel preparation regimens for CCE have improved significantly over the last decade.
• Standardization of CCE bowel preparation protocols requires further research and clinical experience before widespread adoption.