Timing and Use of Capsule Endoscopy in the Acute Care Setting

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is a crucial adjunct to conventional endoscopy in small intestinal bleeding, with a high positive and negative predictive value. Timing is critical in VCE, with earlier deployment associated with improved diagnostic yield. VCE is also useful as a first-line diagnostic modality in the evaluation of acute gastrointestinal bleeding, with accumulating evidence demonstrating expedited VCE can increase diagnostic yield, reduce unneeded admissions, and overall improve patient care. In resource-limited settings, first-line VCE also can reduce unneeded procedures and protect staff from dangerous exposures.