What is capsule endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopy is a procedure that uses a small “video capsule” to take pictures of the inside
of your upper gastrointestinal tract, including your esophagus, stomach and small intestine. The
capsule contains a tiny camera, a light, a battery and a transmitter. Once swallowed, it travels
through the digestive system, taking a series of pictures as it moves forward. The pictures are
transmitted to a small receiver pack worn by the patient during the procedure. Once the procedure
is complete several hours later, the doctor can download the pictures from the receiver onto a
computer for viewing. The disposable capsule will be passed normally through the digestive tract,
eventually being expelled by the bowel and flushed away in the toilet.
How is capsule endoscopy used?
Because the small intestine cannot be reached via colonoscopy or traditional endoscopy, capsule
endoscopy is most frequently used to diagnose suspected abnormalities of this area, including
intestinal tumors or ulcers, Crohn's disease and angiodysplasias, knots of tiny blood vessels
located just beneath the intestinal lining that can cause bleeding resulting in anemia.
What will I experience during the capsule endoscopy?
First, you'll need to fast for several hours prior to the procedure. Be sure to tell your doctor
about any medications you take including aspirin and vitamins. In some cases, you may be asked to
drink a special liquid that cleanses your bowel prior to the procedure. Before swallowing the capsule,
Dr. Lai will apply a sensor to your abdomen using special medical adhesive, then you'll swallow the
capsule normally. Once the procedure is over in about eight hours, you'll return to the office so Dr.
Lai can remove the receiver and retrieve the images. During the eight-hour period, you'll be allowed
to eat a light meal and drink clear liquids, but you'll need to avoid vigorous or strenuous activity.
