Capsule endoscopy versus standard of care in obscure gastrointestinal bleeding: A randomized controlled trial
Abstract
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common problem worldwide. The initial workup usually involves performing a bidirectional endoscopy. When negative, the small bowel could be the source of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding presenting as IDA. The next best diagnostic test is uncertain.
Wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) is a non-invasive new technology that allows examination of the entire small bowel.
Methods: We designed a randomized controlled pilot study to outline the challenges for conducting a full randomized controlled trial (RCT) to determine if WCE should be first-line investigation in such cases. 109 patients were enrolled; 55 intervention (WCE) & 54 controls (standard of care) (SC).
Results: Two-years post-randomization there was no difference in anemia between the two groups.
Conclusion: Few methodological hurdles for conducting a full RCT were identified.
Description
Keywords
Epidemiology
Citation
Adams, F. (2017). Capsule endoscopy versus standard of care in obscure gastrointestinal bleeding: A randomized controlled trial (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/25206