The risk factors and prognosis of capsule retentions of capsule endoscopy examinations

Objective To evaluate the risk factors, treatment and follow–up of capsule retentions after capsule endoscopy examination. Methods A total of 1 100 capsule enteroscopic examinations, performed at our hospital from October 2006 to March 2013, were retrospectively studied. The positive findings of lesions, clinical indications of capsule endoscopy, treatment and follow–ups were recorded. Results The incidence of capsule retentions was 1.18%(n=13). The rates of capsule retentions in OGIB, suspected Crohn's disease(CD), known CD, suspected tumors and chronic abdominal pain were 0.95%, 4.0%, 10.5%, 7.1% and 0.3%, respectively. In 11 patients, the capsule was removed by means of double–balloon enteroscopy, the capsule was removed surgically in one patient, and spontaneous expulsion occurred in another patient after 1 year of treatment. Risk factors for capsule retention were known or suspected CD and suspected tumor(OR=11.44, P=0.02; OR=5.59, P=0.02), and suspected tumor was also a risk factor(OR=7.42, P=0.04). Conclusion Capsule endoscopy is a safe procedure with low risk of capsule retentions. Advantages and disadvantages of capsule endoscopy examinations should be considered carefully when high–risk patients are involved. Key words: Capsule endoscopes; Retention; Risk factors