ASGE Masterclass: Capsule Quest – Journey Through the Future of GI Diagnostics (On-demand) | March 2025-Capsule Chronicles: When to Use and When to Lose It

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Video Summary

Capsule endoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool used primarily for detecting sources of overt bleeding or iron deficiency anemia in the small bowel, which standard endoscopy cannot reach. It plays a significant role in diagnosing and monitoring conditions like Crohn's disease, polyposis syndromes, and celiac disease. A timely procedure increases the diagnostic yield, especially if conducted within the first three days of bleeding onset. For iron deficiency anemia without overt bleeding, oral iron supplementation is recommended before opting for capsule endoscopy. In Crohn's disease, capsule endoscopy can detect inflammation overlooked by CT enterography and is used both for initial diagnosis and monitoring. It is particularly beneficial for patients with FAP and PJS in identifying polyps early. The procedure is not recommended for initial celiac diagnosis but is useful in assessing complications in refractory cases. However, bowel obstruction and gastroparesis pose absolute contraindications. Despite initial concerns, capsule endoscopy is safe in patients with implanted cardiac devices. If capsule endoscopy is contraindicated, alternatives like CT and MR enterography are considered for small bowel imaging.

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Dr. Iris Vance

Keywords

capsule endoscopy

diagnostic tool

Crohn's disease

iron deficiency anemia

small bowel imaging