March 2019 Vol. 7 No.3

Abstract
• Full text
•Reprint (PDF) (194 KB)

Search Pubmed for articles by:
 

Review

Capsule Endoscopy in Clinical Practice: Current Achievements

Ana-Maria Singeap, Carol Stanciu*, Camelia Cojocariu and Anca Trifan

“Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology,
700111 Iasi, Romania

*Corresponding Author’s E-mail: stanciucarol@yahoo.com
Telephone: +40732402860
Fax: +40232246611

Accepted March 25, 2019

Abstract

Since its introduction into clinical practice in 2001, capsule endoscopy (CE) has become the first-line investigation procedure in many small bowel pathologies. In addition, dedicated esophageal and colon CE allowed investigation of upper and lower gastrointestinal disorders. In a short time, CE has gained increased popularity in clinical practice, due to its non-invasive nature, safety, patient comfort, and ability to explore new segments of gastrointestinal tract, previously difficult to explore by traditional endoscopy. However, CE has several limitations, including the lack of therapeutic capabilities, inability to take biopsies and control its movement. Hopefully, most of these limitations will be overcome by modern technology. This review summarizes CE achievements through the entire gastrointestinal tract.

Keywords: Capsule endoscopy; Patency capsule; Crohn’s disease; Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding; Small bowel tumors; Celiac disease