Goals: This study was performed to evaluate the use of wireless capsule endoscopy in a community gastroenterology practice.
Background: Experience with wireless capsule endoscopy at referral centers has been reported, but little has been reported about community gastroenterologists' experience.
Study: A retrospective review of charts and wireless capsule endoscopies performed at a community hospital was performed.
Results: A total of 99 wireless capsule endoscopies were reviewed and complete data were available in 72 cases. Indications included suspected obscure GI bleeding in 97% of cases; 55% of patients were taking anti-platelet or anti-coagulant medications; 71% of examinations were complete. Pathologic findings included angioectasias (36%), gastritis/erosions (21%), bleeding (18%), small bowel ulcers (16%), duodenitis (7%), and small bowel erosions (6%). Strictures, Crohn's disease, and tumors were each seen in 3%. There were no abnormal findings in 37%. One complication, nonnatural excretion of the capsule, caused a transient bowel obstruction but passed without endoscopic intervention or surgery.
Conclusions: In a community-based gastroenterology setting, wireless capsule endoscopy is a safe tool that shows abnormalities in a significant proportion of exams.