Can Magnetic-Assisted Capsule Endoscopy Detect Upper GI Bleeding Lesions?

The diagnostic yield was similar with capsule endoscopy versus standard endoscopy in a proof-of-concept study.

Magnetic-assisted capsule endoscopy (MACE) is a real-time examination technique in which a hand-held magnet is used to control the position of a capsule containing a tiny camera that is swallowed by a patient. To determine the effectiveness of MACE in diagnosing upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB), investigators in the U.K. conducted a prospective, single-blinded, cohort study in which 33 patients with suspected UGIB underwent a MACE examination followed by a standard endoscopy examination.

For the MACE exam, patients drank 1 liter of water containing simethicone and then swallowed the capsule while lying in the right lateral position. The magnet was used to steer the capsule and help view the esophagus as the patient completed a sequence…

Reviewing Author

John R. Saltzman, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardIterative Scopes

Editorial BoardsGastrointestinal Endoscopy; UpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology (Trustee)

OtherVice President of Medical Affairs, 1Globe Health Institute