Pill Capsule Endoscopies Allow Our Doctors to Thoroughly Examine The Inside of the Digestive Tract
Endoscopy procedures are used to examine the condition of a patient's digestive tract and determine the cause of symptoms that they are experiencing, such heartburn, trouble swallowing, or pain in the chest or abdominal area. When more traditional endoscopy procedures — which involves passing a long, flexible tube equipped with a video camera down your throat or through your rectum — are unable to give doctors a closer look at the inside of a patient's small intestine, they may recommend a capsule endoscopy.
At Northeastern Gastroenterology Associates, our team of gastroenterology specialists uses capsule endoscopy, also referred to as pillcam endoscopy, procedures to examine three portions of your small intestine using a tiny camera the size of a large vitamin pill. This diagnostic procedure can be used to determine the cause of recurrent or persistent symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and anemia or bleeding.
Reasons to Consider Scheduling Capsule Endoscopy
You don’t feel comfortable with traditional endoscopy procedures
Pillcam endoscopies are valuable in diagnosing a wide range of gastrointestinal issues
The procedure is non-invasive and doesn’t require surgery and sedation
There is very little risk and capsule endoscopy side effects are rare
The procedure is fast and painless — just like taking a normal pill
Capsule Endoscopy (PillCam) Overview
PillCam Capsule Endoscopy allows gastroenterologists to examine their patient’s small intestine by having them swallow a vitamin-pill sized video capsule. The capsule has a camera and a light source, which allows it to take multiple pictures as it moves naturally through the digestive tract. The images are transmitted to a data recorder that is typically worn on a waist belt. Gastroenterology specialists will be able to view these captured images and utilize them to provide their patients with useful information regarding their small intestine.
What to Expect
Patients undergoing a capsule endoscopy will begin by having adhesive sensors attached to their abdomen. They are then given a glass of water to help swallow the pillcam. Patients do not feel the capsule moving through your digestive tract. It typically takes eight hours for the pillcam to naturally move through your digestive system, during which you can go to work or engage in your usual daytime activities. After eight hours have passed, patients need to return the recording device so that the captured images can be downloaded and evaluated by their doctor. The swallowed pillcam is disposable and will be passed through natural bowel movements. Most patients think this is a very comfortable experience, especially when compared to alternative endoscopy procedures.
How to Prep for a Capsule Endoscopy
Your Honesdale gastroenterologist will provide you with specifics on what to do or what not to do before undergoing a capsule endoscopy procedure. These specifics will include detailed instructions on your diet and medication in the days leading up to the procedure. Typically, patients will be asked to not eat or drink anything for approximately 10 hours before the procedure — having an empty stomach is essential so that your gastroenterologist has optimal viewing conditions. As always, you should always check with your doctor to ensure you can continue taking any medication(s) that you are currently taking.