From Lens to Scalpel: A Systematic Literature Review of Intestinal Obstruction after Video Capsule Endoscopy

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is a valuable noninvasive diagnostic tool for gastrointestinal disorders, but it carries a risk of capsule retention and subsequent bowel obstruction. The aim of the present study was to examine the manifestations, diagnostic approaches, treatment modalities, and outcome of patients with bowel obstruction due to VCE.

A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed/Medline, Embase, Cochrane, and Scopus databases focusing on intestinal obstruction post-VCE.

Out of 399 unique articles, 27 studies were included, involving 30 patients, with an average age of 54 ± 22.3 years and a female-to-male ratio of 1.9:1. Common indications for VCE included Crohn's disease, anemia, abdominal pain with diarrhea, and obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. The obstruction most often occurred in the small intestine, predominantly in the ileum (20 patients, 67%) and the duodenum (5 patients, 17%). Diagnostic methods included CT scans in 19 cases (66%) and X-ray imaging in 8 cases (28%). Treatment varied from conservative management to surgical intervention, and no cases of mortality or morbidity were reported.

This study highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach of such cases, concentrating on tailored therapeutic strategies to prevent and address complications related to VCE. Further research with larger cohorts is needed for a deeper understanding of risk factors and long-term outcomes.