Esophageal and Gastric Diseases With Robotically Controlled Magnetic Capsule Endoscopy

Magnetic controlled capsule endoscope (MCCE) systems have been developed over the last 10-15 years to examine the upper GI tract, particularly the stomach. The new Navicam MACE system consists of a magnetic capsule endoscope, an external control magnet, a data recording kit and a computer workstation. With the appropriate software, allows real-time tracking and monitoring of the capsule inside the body. This method may in the near future be an optimal non-invasive method for screening gastric cancer and Barrett's oesophagus in high-risk populations.

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is the gold standard diagnostic test, however it is very inconvenient for patients without sedation.

The aim of our present study was a feasibility study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Ankon MCCE for the investigation of esophageal abnormalities in patients referred for small bowel capsule endoscopy in our endoscopy department, to develop and test a method to use MCCE for esophageal examination, and to analyze the visualization of esophageal mucosa with our newly developed capsule swallowing protocol and manual capsule maneuvering.

Inclusion criteria

• patients referred for small bowel capsule endoscopy in any indication

Exclusion criteria

• known or suspected stricture in the GI tract
• previous surgery with bowel anastomosis
• swallowing complaints
• dementia
• implanted cardioverter defibrillator
• inability to sign the informed consent