Oesophageal pH capsule retention: case report and proposed endoscopic management

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common chronic condition affecting up to 20 %. Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) is considered 1st line therapy however 10-40 % of patients do not respond adequately subsequently requiring further investigations. One of these investigations includes oesophageal pH testing via a wireless capsule placed into the oesophagus, which may remain there for up to 96 h before being self-displaced. Our report describes a rare case of oesophageal pH capsule retention and proposes a pragmatic approach to its management including endoscopic removal.

A 33 year-old male attended our out-patient clinic with ongoing reflux symptoms and intermittent dysphagia. His response to first line therapy including lifestyle modifications and with PPIs was unsatisfactory thus a plan for an oesophageal Ph capsule study was agreed and performed. On day 4 post-procedure he reported severe dysphagia to solid foods. A Chest X-ray was performed which confirmed the presence of the capsule 7 days post-procedure. On day 12 post-procedure, gastroscopy and retrieval of the capsule was performed successfully.

We recommend gastroenterologists use submucosal elevation in combination with manual traction in order to detach the capsule from the underlying mucosa, followed by retrieval using forceps to grab the thread-end of the capsule.

We hope our report raises awareness for this rare complication as well as providing education to practicing gastroenterologists on a formal manoeuvre for successful endoscopic management of a retained oesophageal pH capsule.