Capsule Endoscopy for Gastric Evaluation

Wireless capsule endoscopy was first developed to observe the small intestine. A small capsule can be swallowed and images of gastrointestinal tract are taken with natural movement of peristalsis. Application of capsule endoscopy for observing the stomach has also received much attention as a useful alternative to esophagogastroduodenoscopy, but anatomical characteristics of the stomach have demanded technical obstacles that need to be tackled: clear visualization and active movements that could be controlled. Different methods of controlling the capsule within stomach have been studied and magnetic manipulation is the only system that is currently used in clinical settings. Magnets within the capsule can be controlled with a hand-held magnet paddle, robotic arm, and electromagnetic coil system. Studies on healthy volunteers and patients with upper gastrointestinal symptoms have shown that it is a safe and effective alternative method of observing the stomach. This work reviews different magnetic locomotion systems that have been used for observation of the stomach as an emerging new application of wireless capsule endoscopy.

Automated summary

Wireless capsule endoscopy, originally developed for observing the small intestine, has now been used for observing the stomach as well. The main challenge lies in controlling the capsule's movement within the stomach, with magnetic manipulation being the most commonly used system. Studies have shown that this method is safe and effective for observing the stomach and is considered an emerging new application of wireless capsule endoscopy.