Risks of Capsule Endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is a noninvasive technology that allows for direct visualization of the entire small intestine and esophagus. It is generally a safe procedure with few complications. Clinically significant complications, including symptomatic capsule retention and aspiration, occur in less than 2% of examinations. Although there is currently no widely accepted means of accurately predicting capsule retention, the Agile patency capsule recently has been developed to determine patency in patients who have possible strictures. The use of this device however, has not been widely accepted. Aside from capsule retention, incomplete small bowel examinations occur in 15% of examinations. The risks of a capsule examination should be carefully reviewed with each patient as part of the informed consent process.