Lack of interference between small bowel capsule endoscopy and implantable cardiac defibrillators: an ‘in vivo’ electrophysiological study

Background Capsule endoscopy is a widely performed procedure for small bowel investigation. Once swallowed by the patient, the capsule transmits images to an external recorder over a digital radiofrequency communication channel. Potential electromagnetic interferences with implantable cardiac devices have been postulated. Clinical studies on the safety of capsule endoscopy in patients with cardiac defibrillators are lacking. Objective The aim of this study was to assess potential mutual electromagnetic interferences between capsule and defibrillators. Methods This study used the Given M2A video capsule system. Ten different types of defibrillators were tested in a clinical setting. Before capsule ingestion, defibrillator electrical therapies were switched off. During capsule endoscopy patients were monitored with cardiac telemetry. At the end of capsule endoscopy the following defibrillator's parameters were analysed: change in device settings; inappropriate shocks; inappropriate anti-tachycardia therapy; inappropriate sensing or pacing; noise detection; device reset; programming changes; permanent electrical damages. Any technical problem related to capsule image transmission was recorded. Results Neither defibrillator malfunction nor interference in sensing or pacing was recorded; conversely, no capsule malfunction potentially caused by defibrillators was registered. Conclusion Our results suggest that capsule endoscopy can be safely performed in patients with cardiac defibrillators.