Robot-controlled capsule endoscopy for examining the upper gastrointestinal tract

Feasibility and Acceptability of Robot-controlled Magnet-Assisted Capsule Endoscopy Compared to Conventional Endoscopy of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract in Children

Not applicable Interventional Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust · NCT06030518

This study tests a new way to use a magnet-controlled capsule that kids aged 11-16 can swallow to check their stomach and intestines for problems without needing sedation.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages11 Years to 16 Years
SexAll
SponsorSheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Sheffield, South Yorkshire)
Trial IDNCT06030518 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the use of a magnet-assisted capsule endoscope to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract in children aged 11-16 years who experience abdominal pain. The capsule, which is swallowed, is steered through the stomach using an external magnet, allowing for a non-invasive examination without the need for sedation. This method aims to provide a comprehensive view of the stomach and duodenum while also enabling the examination of the small bowel. The study compares the diagnostic yield of this innovative approach to traditional endoscopy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 11-16 years experiencing abdominal pain that requires investigation.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions such as dysphagia, small bowel strictures, or those who cannot swallow the capsule will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this method could provide a safer and more comfortable alternative for children undergoing gastrointestinal examinations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in adults have shown promising results with similar magnet-assisted capsule endoscopy approaches, suggesting potential for success in this pediatric population.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Abdominal pain requiring investigation by OGD
* Participant must be willing to undergo both procedures (i.e. ingestion of the capsule and standard of care Oesophago-gastro duodenoscopy (OGD)
* Age 11-16 years inclusive

Exclusion Criteria:

* Dysphagia
* Inability to swallow capsule
* Small bowel stricture
* Disease associated with small bowel stricturing (Crohn's disease, previous small bowel surgery, previous abdominal or pelvic radiation therapy, long term daily (\>6 months) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug consumption)
* Pacemaker or other implantable electrical cardiac or neurological device
* Unable to speak English
* Participants who are pregnant or who have implantable electronic devices cannot take part in the study. Depending on their age and pubertal status the female patients will be offered a pregnancy test prior to any examinations. Capsule endoscopy is not advised during pregnancy.

Where this trial is running

Sheffield, South Yorkshire

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Abdominal PainUpper Gastrointestinal SymptomsUpper GI endoscopy
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.