Pillcam ESO capsule, an alternative diagnostic tool during the COVID-19 pandemic. firstirish experience

ABSTRACT

Aims At the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic in Ireland, many routine and surveillance endoscopies were deferred, with onlyurgent procedures prioritised. The PillCam ESO (Given Imaging Ltd., Yoqneam, Israel) is a non-invasive investigation, whichoffers an alternative method of evaluating the UGI tract for non-urgent referrals for endoscopy. A prospective study to assess if the PillCam ESO can identify important anatomical landmarks stated in the British Societyof Gastroenterology quality standards for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and pathology in the Upper GI Tract. Methods Patients who fitted our inclusion criteria were prospectively invited to participate into our trial. The three main indications were 1;patients with dyspepsia less than 40 years of age with no red flag symptoms, 2;knowncirrhosis to screen for varices, 3;UGI bleeds with a low Blatchford score (≤2). A local protocol for ingestion and series of positional guidelines was developed for the procedure. Endoscopic landmarks, and pathology detection were evaluated by two independent endoscopists. Results 32 exams have been successfully performed from June 2020 to date without complications. The two frequentindications were dyspepsia (66 %) and abdominal pain (19 %). Metoclopramide was administered in 66 % of cases. Visualisation of the following major anatomical landmarks was achieved in 100 % of cases Oesophagus, oesophageal-gastro junction, greater curve, pylorus. A full view of the cardia, fundus, lesser curve, incisura angularis and antrum was obtained in 97 %, 87 %, 93 %, 97 % and97 % of cases, respectively. D2 intubation was achieved in 90 % of cases. A normal exam was reported in 34 % of cases.Reflux oesophagitis and gastritis were the most common pathology detected. Adenocarcinoma of the OG junction wasdetected in 1 case. Conclusions The PillCam ESO achieves excellent views of the upper GI tract. In selective cases, it is a safe alternative togastroscopy which may help reduce gastroscopy waiting times.