Capsule Endoscopy
What is it?
Capsule endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows your doctor to examine the entire length of your digestive tract using a tiny, wireless camera housed inside a pill-sized capsule. Unlike traditional endoscopy, which requires the insertion of a long, flexible tube, this technology offers a painless and convenient way to diagnose various digestive disorders.
Reasons for Capsule Endoscopy:
- Diagnosing gastrointestinal conditions like Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and ulcerative colitis.
- Identifying the source of unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Detecting gastrointestinal cancers.
- Finding polyps or tumors in the digestive tract.
- Examining the esophagus for conditions like Barrett's esophagus.
- Determining the cause of persistent abdominal pain.
- Conducting follow-up testing for previously diagnosed conditions.
Preparation:
- You will typically be instructed to follow a clear liquid diet for a day before the procedure to ensure clear images.
- A laxative may be prescribed to cleanse your digestive tract.
- Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking and inquire about any potential allergies.
Procedure:
- You will swallow the capsule with water.
- A recording device worn on your waist will capture images transmitted by the capsule camera as it travels through your digestive system.
- For 8 hours, you can resume your daily activities with some restrictions, such as avoiding strenuous exercise and consuming only clear liquids for the first few hours.
- After 8 hours, the capsule will naturally pass through your stool.
- Return the recording device to your doctor for image analysis.
Post-Procedure:
- The capsule will eventually pass through your stool and can be safely flushed down the toilet.
- If you haven't passed the capsule after several days, contact your doctor.
- Your doctor will analyze the captured images to diagnose any potential issues.
Risks:
While generally safe, capsule endoscopy carries a slight risk of the capsule getting stuck in your digestive tract, particularly if you have:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
- A polyp or tumor
- Narrowing of the digestive tract due to previous surgery or injury
If the capsule becomes stuck, you may experience abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or other symptoms. In such cases, immediate medical attention is necessary for possible surgical removal of the capsule.
Additional Considerations:
- Capsule endoscopy is not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with swallowing difficulties, or those with implanted medical devices like pacemakers.
- The cost of the procedure can vary depending on location, healthcare provider, and insurance coverage.
Conclusion:
Capsule endoscopy offers a safe, convenient, and effective way to diagnose various digestive disorders. By providing a comprehensive view of your entire digestive tract, it allows your doctor to make accurate diagnoses and develop appropriate treatment plans.
“Thank you for visiting Forest Hills Gastroenterology & Liver Disease, my goal is to treat my patients in a highly personalized manner and I am dedicated to give you the utmost attention and respect that you deserve. For more infromation on this disease or to schedule a consultation with me, please give us a call or book a tele-health appointment online.”
Albert Shalomov
Dr. Albert Shalomov, MD
Disclaimer: Educational Infromation, Not Medical Advice
It’s important to remember that the information provided here is intended for educational purposes only and should not be misconstrued as definitive medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified gastroenterologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment of any specific gastrointestinal condition. Only trained healthcare professionals can provide personalized recommendations and ensure your well-being.
