Predictive Factors for Complete and Incomplete Evaluation of Small Intestine by Endoscopic Capsule

Abstract

Background: The small-bowel is the most difficult segment to be visualized by traditional endoscopic methods. The need for its exploration led to the development of capsule endoscopy. The percentage of the complete examination varies and still remains uncertain the factors that influence the complete and incomplete examination. Aim: Evaluate the factors that interfere with the completeness of the endoscopic evaluation by the capsule. Methods: A prospective study in which were included 939 patients divided into two groups: complete group (CG) and incomplete group (IG). The studied variables that could interfere were: age, gender, comorbidities, diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, previous abdominal surgery, inadequate preparation to compare the groups reached and did not reach the cecum. Results: Of the 939 patients included 879 (93.3%) reached the cecum (CG) and 63 (6.7%) IG no. The IG was composed of 29 (46.0%) men and 34 (54.0%) women with a mean age of 49.7 years; comorbidities this group accounted for 46% of which 15.9% was Crohn’s disease, previous abdominal surgery 22.2% and 17.5% inadequate preparation. Conclusion: Factors associated with complete or incomplete outcome of the examination with capsule endoscopy were: associated comorbidities, Crohn’s disease, previous abdominal surgery and inadequate preparation.