[The role of capsule endoscopy in the diagnosis of small bowel Crohn's disease].

Historically, there have been several modalities available for diagnosing small bowel diseases, but - until recently - endoscopic examination of this part of the gastrointestinal tract was not possible. With its direct visualization of bowel mucosa, the 2002 premier of capsule endoscopy was a major break-through in gastroenterology. The most important indication of small bowel capsule endoscopy is Crohn's disease, it provides valuable diagnostic information in patients with suspected, proven and post-operative disease, too. Several clinical studies proved CE's superiority over other methods. Although young age was a contraindication initially, numerous studies have proved its safety and efficacy in pediatric patients. Complications of CE are rare, the main risk is capsule retention and consequent small bowel ileus which can be prevented by a previous trial examination with a digestible, biodegradable patency test-capsule.