Capsule endoscopy, as the name indicates, is a procedure in which endoscopy is done via a capsule. It is used to take pictures of the digestive tract, especially the 6-meter small intestine because this area is difficult for the doctors to examine from ordinary endoscopic procedures.
What is Capsule Endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopy, as the name indicates, is a procedure in which endoscopy is done via a capsule. It is used to take pictures of the digestive tract, especially the 6 meter small intestine, because this area is difficult for the doctors to examine from ordinary endoscopic procedures. The conventional endoscopy is done with a flexible long tube which is passed through the throat down into the gut.
How does Capsule Endoscopy work?
In capsule endoscopy, a patient is asked to swallow a capsule which is size of a vitamin pill. The capsule contains a tiny, wireless camera. As the capsule passes through the digestive tract of the patient and takes pictures of it. The pictures are then transmitted to a recorder which is tied around the waist of the patient with a belt.
What are the indications of Capsule Endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopy is referred by a doctor for a patient if he presents with complaints related to GIT for which the causes are not clear. These might include the following:
- Find the cause of gastrointestinal bleeding/ane,ia
- Diagnose inflammatory bowel diseases
- Diagnose cancer
- Diagnose celiac disease
- For follow up testing of GIT after other imaging studies as X-Ray or Ultrasound
What are the potential risks of Capsule Endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopy has a very few potential risks. However, there are chances that the capsule does not leave your body during normal bowel movements after a few days and gets stuck in the digestive system instead. This is most likely to occur in patients with:
- Crohn’s disease
What precautions should I take before a Capsule Endoscopy procedure?
You need to take following precautions in case you’re going for capsule endoscopy:
Fasting for at least 12 hours before procedure
Refrain from taking other medications
Avoid strenuous exercise