What is Capsule Endoscopy?

Capsule Endoscopy helps examine the lining of the middle part of your gastrointestinal tract, which includes the three portions of the small intestine (duodenum, jejunum, ileum). We do these usually in our Riverside office often on Fridays. You will be given a pill sized video camera to swallow usually at about 10 AM. This camera has its own light source and takes pictures of your small intestine as it passes through. These pictures are sent to a small recording device you have to wear on your body. You will be asked to come back usually at 6PM. Dr. Ravi will remove the recording device and will be able to watch a video of the inside of your small intestine

Why is Capsule Endoscopy Done?

Capsule endoscopy helps evaluate the small intestine. This part of the bowel cannot be reached by traditional upper endoscopy 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.

How Should I Prepare for the Procedure?

Dr. Ravi suggests a clear liquid dinner the evening before the examination and not eating anything thereafter. Ask Dr. Ravi if morning medicines should be taken as usual. Tell Dr. Ravi in advance about any medications you take including iron, aspirin, bismuth subsalicylate products and other over-the-counter medications. Wear a cotton undershirt, preferably dark colored.

What Can I Expect During Capsule Endoscopy?

Dr. Ravi will prepare you for the examination by applying a sensor device to your abdomen with adhesive sleeves (similar to tape). The pill-sized capsule endoscope is swallowed and passes naturally through your digestive tract while transmitting video images to a data recorder worn on your belt for approximately eight hours. You will return to the office at about 6 PM and the data recorder is removed so that images of your small bowel can be put on a computer screen for physician review. Dr. Ravi may or may not wish to keep you in the office for a bit when you come in at 6 PM after he inspects the data recorder.

Most patients consider the test comfortable. The capsule endoscope is about the size of a large pill. After ingesting the capsule and until it is excreted you should not be near an MRI device or schedule an MRI examination.

What Happens After Capsule Endoscopy?

You will be able to drink clear liquids after two hours and eat a light meal after four hours following the capsule ingestion. Avoid dark colored liquids till the recorder is removed. You will have to avoid vigorous physical activity such as running or jumping during the study. Make sure you don't get the belt or recorder wet. Also take care to not let anything bump into the recorder. The office will advice you about follow-up. The capsule is passed in the stool, most patients don't see the capsule in the toilet.

What are the Possible Complications of Capsule Endoscopy?

Although complications can occur, they are rare. There is potential for the capsule to be stuck at a narrowed spot in the digestive tract resulting in bowel obstruction. This usually relates to a stricture (narrowing) of the digestive tract from inflammation, prior surgery, or tumor. It’s important to recognize obstruction early. Signs of obstruction include unusual bloating, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting. You should call Dr. Ravi immediately for any such concerns. Also, if you develop a fever after the test, have trouble swallowing or experience chest pain, let Dr. Ravi know. Be careful not to prematurely disconnect the system as this may result in loss of pictures being sent to your recording device.

The videos below will give you more information about Capsule Endoscopy.