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Copyright ©2008 The WJG Press and Baishideng. All rights reserved.
World J Gastroenterol. Sep 14, 2008; 14(34): 5265-5268
Published online Sep 14, 2008. doi: 10.3748/wjg.14.5265
Colon capsule endoscopy
Ignacio Fernandez-Urien, Cristina Carretero, Ana Borda, Miguel Muñoz-Navas
Ignacio Fernandez-Urien, Cristina Carretero, Ana Borda, Miguel Muñoz-Navas, Department of Gastroenterology, University of Navarra, Pamplona 31080, Spain
Author contributions: Fernandez-Urien I and Carretero C wrote the paper; Borda A performed picture selection; Muñoz-Navas M reviewed the paper.
Correspondence to: Ignacio Fernandez-Urien, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, University of Navarra, Av. Pio XII, 36, Pamplona 31080, Spain. ifurien@unav.es
Telephone: +34-948-255400 Fax: +34-948-296500
Received: August 2, 2008
Revised: August 18, 2008
Accepted: August 25, 2008
Published online: September 14, 2008
Abstract

Wireless capsule endoscopy has become the first imaging tool for small bowel examination. Recently, new capsule endoscopy applications have been developed, such as esophageal capsule endoscopy and colon capsule endoscopy. Clinical trials results have shown that colon capsule endoscopy is feasible, accurate and safe in patients suffering from colonic diseases. It could be a good alternative in patients refusing conventional colonoscopy or when it is contraindicated. Upcoming studies are needed to demonstrate its utility for colon cancer screening and other indications such us ulcerative colitis. Comparative studies including both conventional and virtual colonoscopy are also required.

Keywords: Capsule endoscopy, Colon, Polyp, Colon cancer, Screening, Colonoscopy