ASGE Masterclass: Capsule Quest – Journey Through the Future of GI Diagnostics (Virtual) | March 2025-Trouble in Paradise: Navigating Limitations and Complications

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The talk discusses the benefits, limitations, and potential complications of capsule endoscopy, specifically highlighting the PILCAM's role in diagnosing small intestine issues. While revolutionary, capsule endoscopy faces challenges like incomplete examinations and lack of therapeutic capabilities. Incomplete exams occur when the capsule doesn’t reach the target area before the battery dies, affecting up to 20% of patients, with factors like diabetes or prior incomplete exams increasing this risk. Capsule retention is a significant complication, potentially requiring surgical intervention. Other rare complications include aspiration and bowel obstruction. Misdiagnosis and interpretation challenges, exacerbated by reader fatigue and competency levels, highlight the importance of patient selection and proper training. Strategies to improve outcomes include using capsules with longer battery life, employing real-time viewing, and improving competency through structured training. The potential of AI to enhance interpretation and reduce reading times is promising. For patients at risk of retention, pre-procedural imaging or a patency capsule test can help. Overall, careful patient selection and improved interpretation strategies can mitigate many pitfalls of capsule endoscopy.

Asset Subtitle

Dr. Roopa Vemulapalli

Keywords

capsule endoscopy

PILCAM

small intestine diagnosis

complications

battery life

interpretation challenges

AI in healthcare