Capsule Endoscopy
Capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive procedure that allows your physician to see inside the small intestine, which isn’t easily reached by traditional endoscopy procedures. Images from this procedure can help your physician diagnose unexplained anemia, Crohn’s disease, Celiac’s disease, or other GI disorders.
What to Expect
You will swallow a capsule containing a tiny camera and battery. As the camera travels through your GI tract, it takes a picture every three seconds for up to eight hours, providing as many as 9600 pictures. These images are wirelessly transmitted to a receiver you wear on your belt, where your physician can later access them for viewing.
For the most part, you can go about your normal daily routine, though you may want to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting. The capsule will pass through your digestive tract after a day or two.
How to Prepare
Follow the specific instructions provided by your physician. These might include not eating 12 hours before your procedure and stopping or delaying certain medications.
