Capsule Endoscopy is a method to visualize lining of the middle part of your gastrointestinal tract, which includes the three portions of the small intestine (duodenum, jejunum, and ileum). It consist of a capsule sized video camera that is swallowed. This camera has its own light source and takes pictures of the small intestine as it passes through. These pictures are sent wirelessly to a small recording device carried by the patient. It is painless, and the patient does not feel the capsule going through the intestine. The recording lasts about 12 hours, and there after you can remove the sensors and recorder (we will show you how). The capsule passes through the colon eventually and is passed normally with stool. It is not re-used!
Your doctor will be able to view these pictures at a later time and might be able to provide you with useful information regarding your small intestine.
Capsule endoscopy is used for the visualization of the small intestine. This part of the bowel cannot be reached by traditional upper endoscopy (gastroscopy) or by colonoscopy. The most common reason for doing capsule endoscopy is to search for a cause of bleeding from the small intestine. It may also be useful for detecting polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease), ulcers, and tumors of the small intestine.
As is the case with most new diagnostic procedures, it is usually necessary for us to write a letter of motivation to the medical aid, with all your prior endoscopy reports and blood results.
Although complications can occur, they are rare when doctors who are specially trained and experienced in this procedure perform the test. There is potential for the capsule to be stuck at a narrowed spot in the digestive tract resulting in bowel obstruction. This is usually caused by a stricture (narrowing) of the digestive tract from inflammation, prior surgery, or tumor.
Be careful not to prematurely disconnect the system as this may result in loss of pictures being sent to your recording device.
Capsule endoscopy may also be called:
You may drink clear liquid 2 hours after ingestion of the capsule, and have a light meal 4 hours after the procedure. To not engage in strenuous exercise during the procedure.
Capsule endoscopy video links:
http://youtu.be/5qR3NqGoZoM
http://youtu.be/8yHWsBDZM_M
