CAPSULE ENDOSCOPY

Capsule Endoscopy or Small Bowel Imaging is the use of a “vitamin-pill” sized capsule (which houses a tiny digital camera and light source) to obtain images of the small intestine.  The small intestine is an area that is not easily visualized by either the Upper Endoscopy or the Colonoscopy.  The capsule provides a complete endoscopic examination of the entire small bowel in a non-invasive way to help determine the cause for recurrent anemia and gastrointestinal bleeding including chronic occult bleeding.

A sensor array (similar to EKG electrodes) will be applied to your abdomen with adhesive sleeves.  The capsule will transmit images to these sensors and will be recorded on a data recorder that is carried on a belt that is worn for approximately eight hours. The test is powered by a battery pack that is also worn on the belt.  After the capsule is swallowed, and the equipment is initialized, you will be free to leave the clinic.  Patients may drive, walk, or rest during the eight -hour test period.  After ingesting the capsule and until it is excreted, you should not have a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examination or be near an MRI device. At the end of the procedure, you will need to return to the office to return the equipment.   The images from the data recorder will then be downloaded into a viewable video for physician review.

The Capsule Endoscopy Procedure cannot be performed on patients with a Pacemaker/AICD or a history of a previous obstruction, patients who are pregnant or who have difficulty swallowing. Some medications including ibuprofen, aspirin, and oral iron may have to be stopped 5-7 days prior to the procedure.

Preparing for the Capsule Endoscopy  the day before the procedure includes:

• Clear liquid diet following lunch.
• No food or liquid after 9:00 pm (any drugs normally taken at night can be taken with a sip of water)

On the day of the procedure:

• Report to the clinic at 7:00 am
• Do not eat, drink, or take any medications before your appointment.
• You will be able to have clear liquids 2 hours after swallowing the capsule, and a light lunch 4 hours after swallowing the capsule.
• Return to the clinic around 3:30 pm for disconnect.

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