Laparoscopic-Assisted Removal of Two Video Capsule Endoscopy Cameras Retained for More Than Two Years

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is used to evaluate the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the small bowel for obscure bleeding, Crohn's disease, and tumors. A rare complication of VCE is the retention of the pill camera. With the expanding use of VCE, it's important to consider the pathology that may lead to retention and approach to treatment. VCE for subacute or intermittent bowel obstruction is considered a contraindication due to the increased risk of retention, however, it may also identify significant pathology. Capsule retention should be treated promptly to prevent complications such as acute small bowel obstruction (SBO) and perforation. This case describes a 51-year-old female who presented with retention of two VCE cameras in the bowel for multiple years. She had intermittent abdominal pain and partial SBOs before the retention. She underwent a successful laparoscopic-assisted surgery removing the two endoscopy cameras and resection of the stenosed small bowel. This case sheds light on the challenges and opportunities in the management of VCE and capsule retention.