Complications

Capsule endoscopy is a well-tolerated and safe procedure and side effects are rare. To date, more than 600,000 examinations have been performed in over 53 countries. The main risk is capsule retention, which is estimated to occur in less than 1% of cases. In the rare instances when this occurs, an endoscopy or keyhole surgery may be required to remove the capsule.

Should there be any doubts about using the capsule, a biodegradable patency (dummy) capsule (which dissolves away should it get stuck) or a barium follow through may be performed first.