185 Form

Chat with GenHealth to automate any policy or prior auth task.


185

Indications

(1) Joseph DA, King JB, Dowling NF, et al. Vital Signs: Colorectal Cancer Screening Test Use - United States, 2018. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. Mar 13 2020; 69(10): 253-259. PMID 32163384 2. Siegel RL, Miller KD, Goding Sauer A, et al. Colorectal cancer statistics, 2020. CA Cancer J Clin. May 2020; 70(3): 145-164. PMID 32133645 3. Cross A, Szoka N. SAGES NaviCam stomach capsule system. March 10, 2021. https://www.sages.org/publications/tavac/navicam-stomach-capsule-system/. Accessed October 16, 2025. 4. Koulaouzidis A, Rondonotti E, Giannakou A, et al. Diagnostic yield of small-bowel capsule endoscopy in patients with iron-deficiency anemia: a systematic review. Gastrointest Endosc. Nov 2012; 76(5): 983-92. PMID 23078923 5. Leung WK, Ho SS, Suen BY, et al. Capsule endoscopy or angiography in patients with acute overt obscure gastrointestinal bleeding: a prospective randomized study with long-term follow-up. Am J Gastroenterol. Sep 2012; 107(9): 1370-6. PMID 22825363 6. Hartmann D, Schmidt H, Bolz G, et al. A prospective two-center study comparing wireless capsule endoscopy with intraoperative enteroscopy in patients with obscure GI bleeding. Gastrointest Endosc. Jun 2005; 61(7): 826-32. PMID 15933683 7. Pennazio M, Santucci R, Rondonotti E, et al. Outcome of patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding after capsule endoscopy: report of 100 consecutive cases. Gastroenterology. Mar 2004; 126(3): 643- 53. PMID 14988816 8. Choi M, Lim S, Choi MG, et al. Effectiveness of Capsule Endoscopy Compared with Other Diagnostic Modalities in Patients with Small Bowel Crohn's Disease: A Meta-Analysis. Gut Liver. Jan 15 2017; 11(1): 62-72. PMID 27728963 9. El-Matary W, Huynh H, Vandermeer B. Diagnostic characteristics of given video capsule endoscopy in diagnosis of celiac disease: a meta-analysis. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A. Dec 2009; 19(6): 815- 20. PMID 19405806 10. Rokkas T, Niv Y. The role of video capsule endoscopy in the diagnosis of celiac disease: a meta- analysis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. Mar 2012; 24(3): 303-8. PMID 22266837 11. Kurien M, Evans KE, Aziz I, et al. Capsule endoscopy in adult celiac disease: a potential role in equivocal cases of celiac disease?. Gastrointest Endosc. Feb 2013; 77(2): 227-32. PMID 23200728? 
(2) Culliford A, Daly J, Diamond B, et al. The value of wireless capsule endoscopy in patients with complicated celiac disease. Gastrointest Endosc. Jul 2005; 62(1): 55-61. PMID 15990820 13. Xue M, Chen X, Shi L, et al. Small-bowel capsule endoscopy in patients with unexplained chronic abdominal pain: a systematic review. Gastrointest Endosc. Jan 2015; 81(1): 186-93. PMID 25012561 14. Yang L, Chen Y, Zhang B, et al. Increased diagnostic yield of capsule endoscopy in patients with chronic abdominal pain. PLoS One. 2014; 9(1): e87396. PMID 24498097 15. Kopylov U, Yung DE, Engel T, et al. Diagnostic yield of capsule endoscopy versus magnetic resonance enterography and small bowel contrast ultrasound in the evaluation of small bowel Crohn's disease: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Dig Liver Dis. Aug 2017; 49(8): 854-863. PMID 28512034 16. Bruining DH, Oliva S, Fleisher MR, et al. Panenteric capsule endoscopy versus ileocolonoscopy plus magnetic resonance enterography in Crohn's disease: a multicentre, prospective study. BMJ Open Gastroenterol. Jun 2020; 7(1). PMID 32499275 17. Elosua A, Rullan M, Rubio S, et al. Does capsule endoscopy impact clinical management in established Crohn's disease?. Dig Liver Dis. Jan 2022; 54(1): 118-124. PMID 34518128? 

Effective Date

NA

Last Reviewed

NA

Original Document

  Reference



1

Medical Policy Wireless Capsule Endoscopy for Gastrointestinal Disorders Table of Contents • Policy: Commercial • Coding Information • Information Pertaining to All Policies
• Policy: Medicare • Description • References
• Authorization Information • Policy History

Policy Number: 185 BCBSA Reference Number: 6.01.33 (For Plan internal use only) Related Policies
None Policy Commercial Members: Managed Care (HMO and POS), PPO, and Indemnity

Wireless capsule endoscopy of the small bowel may be considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY for the following indications: • Suspected small bowel bleeding, as evidenced by prior inconclusive upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopic studies performed during the current episode of illness. • Initial diagnosis in individuals with suspected Crohn disease without evidence of disease on conventional diagnostic tests such as small bowel follow-through and upper and lower endoscopy. • In individuals with an established diagnosis of Crohn disease, when there are unexpected change(s) in the course of disease or response to treatment, suggesting the initial diagnosis may be incorrect and re-examination may be indicated. • For surveillance of the small bowel in individuals with hereditary GI polyposis syndromes, including familial adenomatosis polyposis and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.

Other indications for wireless capsule endoscopy are considered INVESTIGATIONAL, including but not limited to:
• Evaluation of the extent of involvement of known Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Evaluation of the esophagus, in individuals with gastroesophageal reflux or other esophageal pathologies. • Evaluation of other GI diseases and conditions not presenting with GI bleeding, including but not limited to, celiac sprue, irritable bowel syndrome, Lynch syndrome, portal hypertensive enteropathy, small bowel neoplasm, and unexplained chronic abdominal pain.
• Evaluation of the colon including, but not limited to, detection of colonic polyps or colon cancer.
• Initial evaluation of individuals with acute upper GI bleeding. • Evaluation of individuals with evidence of lower GI bleeding and major risks for colonoscopy or moderate sedation. • Evaluation of individuals following incomplete colonoscopy.

2 The patency capsule is considered INVESTIGATIONAL, including the use to evaluate patency of the GI tract before wireless capsule endoscopy.

Magnetic capsule is considered INVESTIGATIONAL for the evaluation of individuals with unexplained upper abdominal complaints.

Prior Authorization Information
Inpatient • For services described in this policy, precertification/preauthorization IS REQUIRED for all products if the procedure is performed inpatient.
Outpatient • For services described in this policy, see below for products where prior authorization might be required if the procedure is performed outpatient.


Outpatient Commercial Managed Care (HMO and POS) Prior authorization is not required. Commercial PPO and Indemnity Prior authorization is not required. CPT Codes / HCPCS Codes / ICD Codes Inclusion or exclusion of a code does not constitute or imply member coverage or provider reimbursement. Please refer to the member’s contract benefits in effect at the time of service to determine coverage or non-coverage as it applies to an individual member.

Providers should report all services using the most up-to-date industry-standard procedure, revenue, and diagnosis codes, including modifiers where applicable.

The following codes are included below for informational purposes only; this is not an all-inclusive list. The above medical necessity criteria MUST be met for the following codes to be covered for Commercial Members: Managed Care (HMO and POS), PPO; Indemnity, Medicare HMO Blue, and Medicare PPO Blue:

CPT Codes CPT codes:

Code Description 91110 Gastrointestinal tract imaging, intraluminal (eg, capsule endoscopy), esophagus through ileum, with physician interpretation and report

The following ICD Diagnosis Codes are considered medically necessary when submitted with the CPT codes above if medical necessity criteria are met:

ICD-10 Diagnosis Codes ICD-10-CM Diagnosis codes: Code Description D12.6 Benign neoplasm of colon, unspecified Polyposis (hereditary) of colon
D13.2 Benign neoplasm of duodenum
adenomatosis polyposis D13.30 Benign neoplasm of unspecified part of small intestine D13.39 Benign neoplasm of other parts of small intestine D46.1 Refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts D46.2 Refractory anemia with excess of blasts [RAEB] D46.20 Refractory anemia with excess of blasts, unspecified D46.4 Refractory anemia, unspecified D50.0 Iron deficiency anemia secondary to blood loss (chronic)

3 D50.8 Other iron deficiency anemias D50.9 Iron deficiency anemia, unspecified D52.0 Dietary folate deficiency anemia D52.9 Folate deficiency anemia, unspecified D53.0 Protein deficiency anemia D53.9 Nutritional anemia, unspecified D64.89 Other specified anemias K50.00 Crohn's disease of small intestine without complications K50.011 Crohn's disease of small intestine with rectal bleeding K50.012 Crohn's disease of small intestine with intestinal obstruction K50.013 Crohn's disease of small intestine with fistula K50.014 Crohn's disease of small intestine with abscess K50.018 Crohn's disease of small intestine with other complication K50.019 Crohn's disease of small intestine with unspecified complications K50.10 Crohn's disease of large intestine without complications K50.111 Crohn's disease of large intestine with rectal bleeding K50.112 Crohn's disease of large intestine with intestinal obstruction K50.113 Crohn's disease of large intestine with fistula K50.114 Crohn's disease of large intestine with abscess K50.118 Crohn's disease of large intestine with other complication K50.119 Crohn's disease of large intestine with unspecified complications K50.80 Crohn's disease of both small and large intestine without complications K50.811 Crohn's disease of both small and large intestine with rectal bleeding K50.812 Crohn's disease of both small and large intestine with intestinal obstruction K50.813 Crohn's disease of both small and large intestine with fistula K50.814 Crohn's disease of both small and large intestine with abscess K50.818 Crohn's disease of both small and large intestine with other complication K50.819 Crohn's disease of both small and large intestine with unspecified complications K50.90 Crohn's disease, unspecified, without complications K50.911 Crohn's disease, unspecified, with rectal bleeding K50.912 Crohn's disease, unspecified, with intestinal obstruction K50.913 Crohn's disease, unspecified, with fistula K50.914 Crohn's disease, unspecified, with abscess K50.918 Crohn's disease, unspecified, with other complication K92.0 Hematemesis K92.1 Melena K92.2 Gastrointestinal hemorrhage, unspecified Q85.81 PTEN tumor syndrome Q85.82 Other Cowden syndrome Q85.83 Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome Q85.89 Other phakomatoses, not elsewhere classified R19.7 Diarrhea, unspecified R93.3 Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of other parts of digestive tract

4 The following CPT code is considered investigational for Commercial Members: Managed Care (HMO and POS), PPO, Indemnity, Medicare HMO Blue and Medicare PPO Blue:

CPT Codes CPT codes:

Code Description 91111 Gastrointestinal tract imaging, intraluminal (e.g., capsule endoscopy), esophagus with physician interpretation and report 91113 Gastrointestinal tract imaging, intraluminal colon 0651T Magnetically controlled capsule endoscopy, esophagus through stomach, including intraprocedural positioning of capsule, with interpretation and report

Description Health and Health Outcome Disparities in Certain Populations Screening for colon cancer is suboptimal in the U.S., with only 68.8% of Americans age 50 to 75 years up- to-date with colorectal cancer screening as of 2018.1, Additionally, screening rates vary considerably by race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status in the U.S, with highest rates of screening occurring in White Americans (71.1%) and the lowest rates of screening among Hispanic Americans (56.1%). Black Americans (70.1%), American Indian/Native Americans (62.1%), and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders (64.8%) have lower screening rates than White Americans. These disparities seem to be associated with limited access to care, a lack of knowledge on family history, and adverse social determinants of health.

As of 2018, the mortality rate for colorectal cancer had decreased by 53% among men and by 30% in women since 1990 and 1969, respectively.2, However, colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates vary between racial and ethnic groups. Between 2012 and 2016, reported incidence rates were highest in non- Hispanic Black individuals, accounting for 45.7 per 100,000 population, and lowest in Asian/Pacific Islander individuals, accounting for 30.0 per 100,000 population. The magnitude of disparity is more evident in mortality rates. Colorectal cancer death rates in non-Hispanic Black individuals (19.0 per 100,000 population) between 2013 and 2017 were nearly 40% higher than those in non-Hispanic White individuals (13.8 per 100,000) and twice that of Asian/Pacific Islander individuals (9.5 per 100,000). Disparities have been attributed to many socioeconomic and social determinants of health, including low median family income, higher prevalence of risk factors, and lower rates of screening and likelihood of timely follow-up.

Wireless Capsule Endoscopy Wireless capsule endoscopy (CE) is performed using disposable imaging video capsules The capsules measure approximately 11 by 30 mm but vary by specific product and contain video imaging, self- illumination, and image transmission modules, as well as a battery supply that lasts at least 12 hours. The indwelling camera takes images as peristalsis carries the capsule through the gastrointestinal tract.

Magnetic Capsule Endoscopy The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a novel magnetically maneuvered CE system (NaviCam™; AnX Robotica, Inc.) in May 2020.4, This system consists of a single-use ingestible capsule and magnet linked to a physician-operated console. The capsule contains a camera that wirelessly captures images of the desired anatomy. The console allows the operator to control the motion and direction of the capsule, ensuring visualization of the entire stomach. The system is non-invasive, does not require sedation, and has a procedural time of approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The capsule leaves the body in 24 hours on average but may take as long as 2 weeks. The device is contraindicated for use in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, stenosis, fistula, or those with dysphagia. Other contraindications include patients with cardiac pacemakers or other implantable electronic medical devices as well as pregnant women, those less than 22 years of age, and those with a body mass index of 38 or greater. Other magnetically controlled devices have since received approval, and the NaviCam Small Bowel Capsule is now AI-assisted.

5 Summary Description The wireless capsule endoscopy (CE) uses a noninvasive device to visualize segments of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Individuals swallow a capsule that records images of the intestinal mucosa as it passes through the GI tract. The capsule is collected after being excreted and images are interpreted.

Summary of Evidence Individuals With Suspected GI Disorders For individuals who have suspected small bowel bleeding (previously referred to as obscure gastrointestinal [GI] bleeding) who receive wireless capsule endoscopy (CE) , the evidence includes numerous case series evaluating patients with a nondiagnostic standard workup and a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, and change in disease status. The evidence has demonstrated that CE can identify a bleeding source in a substantial number of patients who cannot be diagnosed by other methods, with a low incidence of adverse events. Because there are few other options for diagnosing obscure small bowel bleeding in patients with negative upper and lower endoscopy, this technique will likely improve health outcomes by directing specific treatment when a bleeding source is identified. The evidence is sufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

For individuals who have suspected small bowel Crohn disease (CD) who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes case series. Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, and change in disease status. Although the test performance characteristics and diagnostic yields of the capsule for this indication are uncertain, the diagnostic yields are as good as or better than other diagnostic options, and these data are likely to improve health outcomes by identifying some cases of CD and directing specific treatment. The evidence is sufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

For individuals who have suspected celiac disease who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes case series and diagnostic accuracy studies. Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, and change in disease status. The diagnostic characteristics of CE are inadequate to substitute for other modalities or to triage patients to other modalities. For other conditions (eg, determining the extent of CD), direct evidence of improved outcomes or a strong indirect chain of evidence to improved outcomes is lacking. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

For individuals who have unexplained chronic abdominal pain who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes case series and diagnostic accuracy studies. Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, and change in disease status. The diagnostic characteristics of CE are inadequate to substitute for other modalities or to triage patients to other modalities. For other conditions (eg, determining the extent of CD), direct evidence of improved outcomes or a strong chain of evidence to improved outcomes is lacking. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

Individuals With Confirmed Gastrointestinal Disorders For individuals who have an established diagnosis of CD who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes diagnostic accuracy studies, a systematic review, and a retrospective cohort study. Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, and change in disease status. A 2017 systematic review of 11 studies in patients with established CD found a similar diagnostic yield with CE and with radiography. Because there is evidence that the diagnostic yields are as good as or better than other diagnostic options, there is indirect evidence that CE is likely to improve health outcomes by identifying some cases of CD and directing specific treatment. A retrospective cohort study demonstrated therapeutic management changes based on CE results. The evidence is sufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

6 For individuals who have ulcerative colitis who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes case series and diagnostic accuracy studies. Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, and change in disease status. Several diagnostic accuracy studies have compared CE with colonoscopy to assess disease activity in patients with ulcerative colitis. Two of 3 studies were small (ie, <50 patients) and thus data on diagnostic accuracy are limited. Direct evidence of improved outcomes and a strong chain of evidence to improved outcomes are lacking. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome. For individuals who have esophageal disorders who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes case series and diagnostic accuracy studies. Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, and change in disease status. Other available modalities are superior to CE. The diagnostic characteristics of CE are inadequate to substitute for other modalities or to triage patients to other modalities. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

For individuals who have hereditary GI polyposis syndromes who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes case series and diagnostic accuracy studies. Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, and change in disease status. The data are insufficient to determine whether evaluation with CE would improve patient outcomes. Further information on the prevalence and natural history of small bowel polyps in Lynch syndrome patients is necessary. At present, surveillance of the small bowel is not generally recommended as a routine intervention for patients with Lynch syndrome. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

For individuals who have portal hypertensive enteropathy who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes case series and diagnostic accuracy studies. Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, and change in disease status. Systematic reviews of studies of CE’s diagnostic performance for this indication have reported limited sensitivity and specificity. Due to insufficient data on diagnostic accuracy, a chain of evidence on clinical utility cannot be constructed. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding For individuals who have acute upper GI tract bleeding who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes RCTs and several cohort studies. Relevant outcomes are test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, hospitalizations, and resource utilization. The use of CE in the emergency department setting for suspected upper GI bleeding is intended to avoid unnecessary hospitalization or immediate endoscopy. Controlled studies are needed to assess further the impact of CE on health outcomes compared with standard management. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

Colon Cancer Screening For individuals who are screened for colon cancer who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes diagnostic accuracy studies and systematic reviews. Relevant outcomes are overall survival, disease- specific survival, test validity, test accuracy, and other test performance measures. Studies of CE in screening populations are necessary to determine the diagnostic characteristics of the test in this setting. Studies of diagnostic characteristics alone are insufficient evidence to determine the efficacy of CE for colon cancer screening. Because diagnostic performance is worse than standard colonoscopy, CE would need to be performed more frequently than standard colonoscopy to have comparable efficacy. Without direct evidence of efficacy in a clinical trial of colon cancer screening using CE, modeling studies using established mathematical models of colon precursor incidence and progression to cancer could provide estimates of efficacy in preventing colon cancer mortality. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

7 Lower Gastrointestinal Tract Bleeding and Major Risks for Colonoscopy or Moderate Sedation For individuals who are screened for colon polyps with evidence of lower GI tract bleeding and major risks for colonoscopy or moderate sedation who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes diagnostic accuracy studies. Relevant outcomes are test accuracy, test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, change in disease status, and resource utilization. Studies of CE in the intended use population are necessary to determine the diagnostic characteristics of the test in the triage setting. Studies of diagnostic characteristics alone are insufficient evidence to determine the clinical utility of CE in this population, and no studies adequately assess the impact of findings on specific health outcomes or patient adherence. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

Incomplete Colonoscopy For individuals who are screened for colon polyps following an incomplete colonoscopy with adequate preparation who receive wireless CE, the evidence includes case series. Relevant outcomes are test accuracy, test validity, other test performance measures, symptoms, change in disease status, and resource utilization. Studies of CE compared to standard management with repeat colonoscopy in the intended use population are necessary to determine the diagnostic characteristics of the test in the triage setting. Studies of diagnostic characteristics alone are insufficient evidence to determine the clinical utility of CE in this population, and no studies adequately assess the impact of findings on specific health outcomes or patient adherence. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

Patency Capsule for Individuals with Bowel Stricture For individuals who are scheduled to undergo CE for known or suspected small bowel stricture who receive a patency capsule, the evidence includes case series. Relevant outcomes are test validity, symptoms, change in disease status, and treatment-related morbidity, The available studies have reported that CE following a successful patency capsule test results in high rates of success with low rates of adverse events. The capsule is also associated with adverse events. Because of the lack of comparative data to other diagnostic strategies, it is not possible to determine whether the use of the patency capsule improves the net health outcome. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

Magnetic Capsule Endoscopy for Individuals with Suspected Gastrointestinal Disorders For individuals who have unexplained upper abdominal complaints who receive magnetic CE, the evidence includes diagnostic accuracy studies. Relevant outcomes are test validity, symptoms, change in disease status, and treatment-related morbidity. Studies evaluating the diagnostic characteristics of magnetic CE as compared to conventional gastroscopy in the target population have generally demonstrated similar accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, with increases in patient preference and an acceptable safety profile with the magnetic CE approach. However, the diagnostic characteristics of magnetic CE are inadequate to substitute for other modalities or to triage patients to other modalities based on the current literature. Direct evidence of improved outcomes or a strong chain of evidence to improved outcomes is lacking. The evidence is insufficient to determine that the technology results in an improvement in the net health outcome.

Policy History Date Action 2/2026 Annual policy review. Policy updated with literature review through October 16, 2025; references added. Policy statements unchanged.
2/2025 Annual policy review. Policy updated with literature review through October 31, 2024; no references added. Policy statements unchanged. 1/2024 Annual policy review. Description, summary, and references updated. Policy statements unchanged. 2/2023 Annual policy review. Minor editorial refinements to policy statements; intent unchanged. 10/2022 Clarified coding information.

8 5/2022 Annual policy review. Magnetic capsule endoscopy (NaviCam) added to policy with new indication and investigational policy statement. Title changed to "Wireless Capsule Endoscopy for Gastrointestinal (GI) Disorders.” Effective 5/1/2022. 1/2022 Clarified coding information. 7/2021 Clarified coding information. 5/2021 Annual policy review. Added lower GI bleeding and major risks for colonoscopy or moderate sedation and incomplete colonoscopy to investigational policy statement. Effective 5/1/2021. 12/2019 Annual policy review. Description, summary, and references updated. Policy statements unchanged. 1/2019 Annual policy review. Description, summary, and references updated. Policy statements unchanged. 1/2018 Annual policy review. New references added. 1/2017 Annual policy review. New references added. 1/2017 Annual policy review. Policy statement clarified: “Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding” to “Suspected small bowel bleeding.” Title changed to “Wireless Capsule Endoscopy to Diagnose Disorders of the Small Bowel, Esophagus, and Colon.” New references added. 1/1/2017 11/2015 Annual policy review. New references added. 2/2015 Annual policy review. New medically necessary and investigational indications described. Clarified coding information. Effective 2/1/2015. 7/2014 Updated Coding section with ICD10 procedure and diagnosis codes, effective 10/2015. 2/2014 Annual policy review. New investigational indications described. Effective 2/1/2014. Removed CPT code 91112 as it does not meet the intent. Removed ICD-9 diagnosis codes as they are not in the LCD (L22531) 280.9, 456.0, 456.2, 537.83, 555.1, 555.2, 555.9, and added 569.86 as this is in the: LCD. 11/2011-4/2012 Medical policy ICD 10 remediation: Formatting, editing and coding updates.
No changes to policy statements.
10/2011 Reviewed - Medical Policy Group - Gastroenterology, Nutrition, Organ Transplantation. No changes to policy statements. 11/2010 Reviewed - Medical Policy Group - Gastroenterology, Nutrition, Organ Transplantation. No changes to policy statements. 5/1/2010 Medical Policy 185 effective 5/1/2010 describing covered and non-covered indications. 11/2008 Reviewed - Medical Policy Group - Gastroenterology, Nutrition, Organ Transplantation. No changes to policy statements. 11/2007 Reviewed - Medical Policy Group - Gastroenterology, Nutrition, Organ Transplantation. No changes to policy statements. 1/2007 National policy reviewed 1/2007. Revisions to policy statements. 11/2006 Reviewed - Medical Policy Group - Gastroenterology, Nutrition, Organ Transplantation. No changes to policy statements. Information Pertaining to All Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical Policies Click on any of the following terms to access the relevant information: Medical Policy Terms of Use Managed Care Guidelines Indemnity/PPO Guidelines Clinical Exception Process Medical Technology Assessment Guidelines

9 References

  1. Joseph DA, King JB, Dowling NF, et al. Vital Signs: Colorectal Cancer Screening Test Use - United States, 2018. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. Mar 13 2020; 69(10): 253-259. PMID 32163384
  2. Siegel RL, Miller KD, Goding Sauer A, et al. Colorectal cancer statistics, 2020. CA Cancer J Clin. May 2020; 70(3): 145-164. PMID 32133645
  3. Cross A, Szoka N. SAGES NaviCam stomach capsule system. March 10,
  4. https://www.sages.org/publications/tavac/navicam-stomach-capsule-system/. Accessed October 16,
  5. Koulaouzidis A, Rondonotti E, Giannakou A, et al. Diagnostic yield of small-bowel capsule endoscopy in patients with iron-deficiency anemia: a systematic review. Gastrointest Endosc. Nov 2012; 76(5): 983-92. PMID 23078923
  6. Leung WK, Ho SS, Suen BY, et al. Capsule endoscopy or angiography in patients with acute overt obscure gastrointestinal bleeding: a prospective randomized study with long-term follow-up. Am J Gastroenterol. Sep 2012; 107(9): 1370-6. PMID 22825363
  7. Hartmann D, Schmidt H, Bolz G, et al. A prospective two-center study comparing wireless capsule endoscopy with intraoperative enteroscopy in patients with obscure GI bleeding. Gastrointest Endosc. Jun 2005; 61(7): 826-32. PMID 15933683
  8. Pennazio M, Santucci R, Rondonotti E, et al. Outcome of patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding after capsule endoscopy: report of 100 consecutive cases. Gastroenterology. Mar 2004; 126(3): 643-
  9. PMID 14988816
  10. Choi M, Lim S, Choi MG, et al. Effectiveness of Capsule Endoscopy Compared with Other Diagnostic Modalities in Patients with Small Bowel Crohn's Disease: A Meta-Analysis. Gut Liver. Jan 15 2017; 11(1): 62-72. PMID 27728963
  11. El-Matary W, Huynh H, Vandermeer B. Diagnostic characteristics of given video capsule endoscopy in diagnosis of celiac disease: a meta-analysis. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A. Dec 2009; 19(6): 815-
  12. PMID 19405806
  13. Rokkas T, Niv Y. The role of video capsule endoscopy in the diagnosis of celiac disease: a meta- analysis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. Mar 2012; 24(3): 303-8. PMID 22266837
  14. Kurien M, Evans KE, Aziz I, et al. Capsule endoscopy in adult celiac disease: a potential role in equivocal cases of celiac disease?. Gastrointest Endosc. Feb 2013; 77(2): 227-32. PMID 23200728
  15. Culliford A, Daly J, Diamond B, et al. The value of wireless capsule endoscopy in patients with complicated celiac disease. Gastrointest Endosc. Jul 2005; 62(1): 55-61. PMID 15990820
  16. Xue M, Chen X, Shi L, et al. Small-bowel capsule endoscopy in patients with unexplained chronic abdominal pain: a systematic review. Gastrointest Endosc. Jan 2015; 81(1): 186-93. PMID 25012561
  17. Yang L, Chen Y, Zhang B, et al. Increased diagnostic yield of capsule endoscopy in patients with chronic abdominal pain. PLoS One. 2014; 9(1): e87396. PMID 24498097
  18. Kopylov U, Yung DE, Engel T, et al. Diagnostic yield of capsule endoscopy versus magnetic resonance enterography and small bowel contrast ultrasound in the evaluation of small bowel Crohn's disease: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Dig Liver Dis. Aug 2017; 49(8): 854-863. PMID 28512034
  19. Bruining DH, Oliva S, Fleisher MR, et al. Panenteric capsule endoscopy versus ileocolonoscopy plus magnetic resonance enterography in Crohn's disease: a multicentre, prospective study. BMJ Open Gastroenterol. Jun 2020; 7(1). PMID 32499275
  20. Elosua A, Rullan M, Rubio S, et al. Does capsule endoscopy impact clinical management in established Crohn's disease?. Dig Liver Dis. Jan 2022; 54(1): 118-124. PMID 34518128
  21. Shi HY, Chan FKL, Higashimori A, et al. A prospective study on second-generation colon capsule endoscopy to detect mucosal lesions and disease activity in ulcerative colitis (with video). Gastrointest Endosc. Dec 2017; 86(6): 1139-1146.e6. PMID 28713062
  22. San Juan-Acosta M, Caunedo-Álvarez A, Argüelles-Arias F, et al. Colon capsule endoscopy is a safe and useful tool to assess disease parameters in patients with ulcerative colitis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. Aug 2014; 26(8): 894-901. PMID 24987825
  23. Oliva S, Di Nardo G, Hassan C, et al. Second-generation colon capsule endoscopy vs. colonoscopy in pediatric ulcerative colitis: a pilot study. Endoscopy. Jun 2014; 46(6): 485-92. PMID 24777427
  24. Sung J, Ho KY, Chiu HM, et al. The use of Pillcam Colon in assessing mucosal inflammation in ulcerative colitis: a multicenter study. Endoscopy. Aug 2012; 44(8): 754-8. PMID 22696193

10

  1. Guturu P, Sagi SV, Ahn D, et al. Capsule endoscopy with PILLCAM ESO for detecting esophageal varices: a meta-analysis. Minerva Gastroenterol Dietol. Mar 2011; 57(1): 1-11. PMID 21372764
  2. Usman O, Prabakar D, Malik MA, et al. Use of wireless capsule endoscopy for the diagnosis and grading of esophageal varices in patients with portal hypertension: A systematic review and meta- analysis. Saudi J Gastroenterol. Nov 01 2025; 31(6): 329-337. PMID 40994035
  3. Bhardwaj A, Hollenbeak CS, Pooran N, et al. A meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of esophageal capsule endoscopy for Barrett's esophagus in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. Am J Gastroenterol. Jun 2009; 104(6): 1533-9. PMID 19491867
  4. Urquhart P, Grimpen F, Lim GJ, et al. Capsule endoscopy versus magnetic resonance enterography for the detection of small bowel polyps in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Fam Cancer. Jun 2014; 13(2): 249-
  5. PMID 24509884
  6. Brown G, Fraser C, Schofield G, et al. Video capsule endoscopy in peutz-jeghers syndrome: a blinded comparison with barium follow-through for detection of small-bowel polyps. Endoscopy. Apr 2006; 38(4): 385-90. PMID 16680639
  7. Mata A, Llach J, Castells A, et al. A prospective trial comparing wireless capsule endoscopy and barium contrast series for small-bowel surveillance in hereditary GI polyposis syndromes. Gastrointest Endosc. May 2005; 61(6): 721-5. PMID 15855978
  8. Haanstra JF, Al-Toma A, Dekker E, et al. Prevalence of small-bowel neoplasia in Lynch syndrome assessed by video capsule endoscopy. Gut. Oct 2015; 64(10): 1578-83. PMID 25209657
  9. Saurin JC, Pilleul F, Soussan EB, et al. Small-bowel capsule endoscopy diagnoses early and advanced neoplasms in asymptomatic patients with Lynch syndrome. Endoscopy. Dec 2010; 42(12): 1057-62. PMID 20821360
  10. McCarty TR, Afinogenova Y, Njei B. Use of Wireless Capsule Endoscopy for the Diagnosis and Grading of Esophageal Varices in Patients With Portal Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Gastroenterol. Feb 2017; 51(2): 174-182. PMID 27548729
  11. Colli A, Gana JC, Turner D, et al. Capsule endoscopy for the diagnosis of oesophageal varices in people with chronic liver disease or portal vein thrombosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Oct 01 2014; 2014(10): CD008760. PMID 25271409
  12. Sung JJ, Tang RS, Ching JY, et al. Use of capsule endoscopy in the emergency department as a triage of patients with GI bleeding. Gastrointest Endosc. Dec 2016; 84(6): 907-913. PMID 27156655
  13. Gutkin E, Shalomov A, Hussain SA, et al. Pillcam ESO(®) is more accurate than clinical scoring systems in risk stratifying emergency room patients with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Therap Adv Gastroenterol. May 2013; 6(3): 193-8. PMID 23634183
  14. Chandran S, Testro A, Urquhart P, et al. Risk stratification of upper GI bleeding with an esophageal capsule. Gastrointest Endosc. Jun 2013; 77(6): 891-8. PMID 23453185
  15. Gralnek IM, Ching JY, Maza I, et al. Capsule endoscopy in acute upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage: a prospective cohort study. Endoscopy. 2013; 45(1): 12-9. PMID 23254402
  16. Spada C, Pasha SF, Gross SA, et al. Accuracy of First- and Second-Generation Colon Capsules in Endoscopic Detection of Colorectal Polyps: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. Nov 2016; 14(11): 1533-1543.e8. PMID 27165469
  17. Kjølhede T, Ølholm AM, Kaalby L, et al. Diagnostic accuracy of capsule endoscopy compared with colonoscopy for polyp detection: systematic review and meta-analyses. Endoscopy. Jul 2021; 53(7): 713-721. PMID 32858753
  18. Saito Y, Saito S, Oka S, et al. Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of colon capsule endoscopy in the detection of lesions of the colon: prospective, multicenter, open study. Gastrointest Endosc. Nov 2015; 82(5): 861-9. PMID 25936450
  19. Morgan DR, Malik PR, Romeo DP, et al. Initial US evaluation of second-generation capsule colonoscopy for detecting colon polyps. BMJ Open Gastroenterol. 2016; 3(1): e000089. PMID 27195129
  20. Parodi A, Vanbiervliet G, Hassan C, et al. Colon capsule endoscopy to screen for colorectal neoplasia in those with family histories of colorectal cancer. Gastrointest Endosc. Mar 2018; 87(3): 695-704. PMID 28554656
  21. Cash BD, Fleisher MR, Fern S, et al. Multicentre, prospective, randomised study comparing the diagnostic yield of colon capsule endoscopy versus CT colonography in a screening population (the TOPAZ study). Gut. Nov 2021; 70(11): 2115-2122. PMID 33443017

11

  1. Kobaek-Larsen M, Kroijer R, Dyrvig AK, et al. Back-to-back colon capsule endoscopy and optical colonoscopy in colorectal cancer screening individuals. Colorectal Dis. Jun 2018; 20(6): 479-485. PMID 29166546
  2. Rondonotti E, Borghi C, Mandelli G, et al. Accuracy of capsule colonoscopy and computed tomographic colonography in individuals with positive results from the fecal occult blood test. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. Aug 2014; 12(8): 1303-10. PMID 24398064
  3. Eliakim R, Yassin K, Niv Y, et al. Prospective multicenter performance evaluation of the second- generation colon capsule compared with colonoscopy. Endoscopy. Dec 2009; 41(12): 1026-31. PMID 19967618
  4. Franco DL, Leighton JA, Gurudu SR. Approach to Incomplete Colonoscopy: New Techniques and Technologies. Gastroenterol Hepatol (N Y). Aug 2017; 13(8): 476-483. PMID 28867979
  5. Hussey M, Holleran G, Stack R, et al. Same-day colon capsule endoscopy is a viable means to assess unexplored colonic segments after incomplete colonoscopy in selected patients. United European Gastroenterol J. Dec 2018; 6(10): 1556-1562. PMID 30574326
  6. Baltes P, Bota M, Albert J, et al. PillCamColon2 after incomplete colonoscopy - A prospective multicenter study. World J Gastroenterol. Aug 21 2018; 24(31): 3556-3566. PMID 30131662
  7. Negreanu L, Babiuc R, Bengus A, et al. PillCam Colon 2 capsule in patients unable or unwilling to undergo colonoscopy. World J Gastrointest Endosc. Nov 16 2013; 5(11): 559-67. PMID 24255748
  8. Pioche M, de Leusse A, Filoche B, et al. Prospective multicenter evaluation of colon capsule examination indicated by colonoscopy failure or anesthesia contraindication. Endoscopy. Oct 2012; 44(10): 911-6. PMID 22893133
  9. Nogales Ó, García-Lledó J, Luján M, et al. Therapeutic impact of colon capsule endoscopy with PillCam™ COLON 2 after incomplete standard colonoscopy: a Spanish multicenter study. Rev Esp Enferm Dig. May 2017; 109(5): 322-327. PMID 28229607
  10. Spada C, Shah SK, Riccioni ME, et al. Video capsule endoscopy in patients with known or suspected small bowel stricture previously tested with the dissolving patency capsule. J Clin Gastroenterol. Jul 2007; 41(6): 576-82. PMID 17577114
  11. Delvaux M, Ben Soussan E, Laurent V, et al. Clinical evaluation of the use of the M2A patency capsule system before a capsule endoscopy procedure, in patients with known or suspected intestinal stenosis. Endoscopy. Sep 2005; 37(9): 801-7. PMID 16116529
  12. Herrerias JM, Leighton JA, Costamagna G, et al. Agile patency system eliminates risk of capsule retention in patients with known intestinal strictures who undergo capsule endoscopy. Gastrointest Endosc. May 2008; 67(6): 902-9. PMID 18355824
  13. Postgate AJ, Burling D, Gupta A, et al. Safety, reliability and limitations of the given patency capsule in patients at risk of capsule retention: a 3-year technical review. Dig Dis Sci. Oct 2008; 53(10): 2732-8. PMID 18320313
  14. Banerjee R, Bhargav P, Reddy P, et al. Safety and efficacy of the M2A patency capsule for diagnosis of critical intestinal patency: results of a prospective clinical trial. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. Dec 2007; 22(12): 2060-3. PMID 17614957
  15. Denzer UW, Rösch T, Hoytat B, et al. Magnetically guided capsule versus conventional gastroscopy for upper abdominal complaints: a prospective blinded study. J Clin Gastroenterol. Feb 2015; 49(2): 101-7. PMID 24618504
  16. Liao Z, Hou X, Lin-Hu EQ, et al. Accuracy of Magnetically Controlled Capsule Endoscopy, Compared With Conventional Gastroscopy, in Detection of Gastric Diseases. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. Sep 2016; 14(9): 1266-1273.e1. PMID 27211503
  17. Rubio-Tapia A, Hill ID, Kelly CP, et al. ACG clinical guidelines: diagnosis and management of celiac disease. Am J Gastroenterol. May 2013; 108(5): 656-76; quiz 677. PMID 23609613
  18. Rubio-Tapia A, Hill ID, Semrad C, et al. American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines Update: Diagnosis and Management of Celiac Disease. Am J Gastroenterol. Jan 01 2023; 118(1): 59-76. PMID 36602836
  19. Lichtenstein GR, Loftus EV, Afzali A, et al. ACG Clinical Guideline: Management of Crohn's Disease in Adults. Am J Gastroenterol. Jun 03 2025; 120(6): 1225-1264. PMID 40701562
  20. Gerson LB, Fidler JL, Cave DR, et al. ACG Clinical Guideline: Diagnosis and Management of Small Bowel Bleeding. Am J Gastroenterol. Sep 2015; 110(9): 1265-87; quiz 1288. PMID 26303132

12

  1. American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines. 2025. https://gi.org/guidelines/. Accessed October 16, 2025.
  2. Shaukat A, Kahi CJ, Burke CA, et al. ACG Clinical Guidelines: Colorectal Cancer Screening 2021. Am J Gastroenterol. Mar 01 2021; 116(3): 458-479. PMID 33657038
  3. Enns RA, Hookey L, Armstrong D, et al. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Use of Video Capsule Endoscopy. Gastroenterology. Feb 2017; 152(3): 497-514. PMID 28063287
  4. Gurudu SR, Bruining DH, Acosta RD, et al. The role of endoscopy in the management of suspected small-bowel bleeding. Gastrointest Endosc. Jan 2017; 85(1): 22-31. PMID 27374798
  5. Rex DK, Boland CR, Dominitz JA, et al. Colorectal Cancer Screening: Recommendations for Physicians and Patients From the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. Gastroenterology. Jul 2017; 153(1): 307-323. PMID 28600072
  6. Patel SG, May FP, Anderson JC, et al. Updates on Age to Start and Stop Colorectal Cancer Screening: Recommendations From the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. Gastroenterology. Jan 2022; 162(1): 285-299. PMID 34794816
  7. Davidson KW, Barry MJ, Mangione CM, et al. Screening for Colorectal Cancer: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. JAMA. May 18 2021; 325(19): 1965-1977. PMID 34003218
Book a walkthrough

Walk through this policy with us

Review how this policy can be converted into cited criteria, prior authorization checks, and operational automation.