Current status and future perspectives of capsule endoscopy

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Imaging
• Endoscopy

Background:

• Small bowel capsule endoscopy (CE) has been established for 15 years.
• Extensive literature supports its indications, diagnostic yields, and safety.
• Guidelines now position CE as a primary tool for small bowel disease diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status and future directions of capsule endoscopy.
• To address all aspects of clinical practice, including the role and long-term outcomes of CE.
• To highlight advancements and challenges in capsule endoscopy technology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of capsule endoscopy indications, yields, and safety.
• Analysis of current clinical practice guidelines for CE.
• Discussion of technological challenges and future device development.

Main Results:

• CE is indicated for obscure GI bleeding, iron deficiency anemia, Crohn's disease, small bowel tumors, and more.
• Colon CE offers an alternative to colonoscopy, with potential in colorectal cancer screening.
• Technological challenges include developing therapeutic capabilities, improved visualization, biopsy, and guided navigation.

Conclusions:

• Capsule endoscopy is a vital diagnostic modality in gastroenterology.
• Future CE development focuses on therapeutic applications and enhanced imaging.
• CE plays a significant role in managing various gastrointestinal conditions.