A129 Videocapsule Endoscopy Retention: What Are the Risk Factors?

Abstract

Background The most feared complication of videocapsule endoscopy (VCE) is retention in the intestine. It is estimated to occur in 1.4% of cases but the risk factors are not well known. Aims To determine the prevalence of VCE retention at a tertiary care centre as well the associated risk factors. Methods Retrospective study between 2016 and 2019. All patients at a tertiary care centre undergoing VCE were recruited. The patients with an incomplete endoscopy report or who were unable to complete VCE were excluded. Clinical and endoscopic information was compiled from patients’ medical charts as well as the indications and results of the endoscopic procedure. VCE retention, evaluated by radiography or CT scan, was defined as persistence of the videocapsule in the gastrointestinal tract for ≥14 days or the need for an intervention for removal. Results In total, 126 patients underwent VCE (average age: 66±16, 52% female). There was 6% of patients with Crohn’s disease, and 40% of patients had a previous abdominal surgery. The indications for endoscopy were: iron deficient anemia (48%), gastrointestinal bleeding (32%), suspicion/follow up of IBD (10%), and other (11%). The VCE findings (n=146) were: angiodysplasia (30%), inflammation (30%), normal (20%), polyp (5%), and other (15%). 77% of results were not previously found by conventional endoscopy or imaging. The prevalence of VCE retention was 1.6%. The patient risk factors for retention were Crohn’s disease (OR 19.67; 95CI 1.09–354.11; p<0.05) and corticosteroid use in the previous 2 weeks (OR 19.67; 95CI 1.09–354.11; p<0.05). There was no risk of retention associated with ulcerative colitis, sex, abdominal surgery, or opioid use. The finding of stenosis on VCE was associated with an increased risk of retention (OR 123; 95% CI 4.11-3683.43; p<0.01). Conclusions VCE retention remains a rare complication. There is increased risk of retention in patients with known Crohn’s disease or recent use of corticosteroids. Funding Agencies None