Capsule endoscopy: clinical insights, challenges, and evolving perspectives in the 21st century

Capsule endoscopy (CE) is widely employed in clinical practice owing to its minimally invasive nature and high diagnostic accuracy. It is the primary modality for evaluating suspected diseases of the small-bowel, as recommended by guidelines from various countries. Advancements in CE technology have introduced various models for evaluating not only the small-bowel but also the colon, esophagus, stomach, and the entire gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, colon CE enables early detection of colorectal polyps and cancers, as well as surveillance of inflammatory bowel disease. Furthermore, innovative developments, such as magnetically controlled CE, offer enhanced maneuverability, particularly in the stomach. Recent reports highlight the growing use of artificial intelligence in CE, with promising potential for reducing physician burden, and clinical implementation is anticipated. Furthermore, novel CE technologies are expected to enable the diagnosis of gastrointestinal diseases through a less invasive approach in the near future. Key questions/aims: Herewith we provide a comprehensive review of the current status and clinical applications of CE while addressing the challenges that remain in its implementation in practice and highlighting the key areas for future research and development.