Wireless capsule endoscopy.

The Given M2A(R) ingestible, disposable imaging capsule contains a miniature video camera, which, when it is swallowed, can transmit images to a computer. It is used to detect abnormalities in the inner lining of the small intestine. In studies of small numbers of patients, the capsule demonstrates superior diagnostic rates for disorders of the small intestine among adults and children. All studies report fewer complications or less patient discomfort with the use of the capsule. Limiting factors are the time taken by physicians to evaluate the images, the lack of comparative evaluations of the capsule's sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional procedures and the impact of its cost.