Capsule endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a small, swallowable capsule equipped with a miniature camera to capture thousands of images as it travels through the digestive system. The images are transmitted to a recording device worn by the patient and reviewed by a physician to identify potential abnormalities.

Capsule endoscopy is commonly used to evaluate:

• Unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding

• Iron deficiency anemia

• Crohn’s disease

• Small intestine inflammation

• Persistent abdominal pain

• Suspected polyps or tumors

• Ongoing digestive symptoms with unclear causes

This technology allows physicians to examine the small bowel without the need for sedation or invasive procedures.

Your doctor may recommend capsule endoscopy if previous diagnostic testing has not identified the source of digestive symptoms or bleeding.

This procedure may be helpful for patients experiencing:

• Chronic abdominal discomfort

• Unexplained anemia

• Occult gastrointestinal bleeding

• Suspected small bowel disease

• Recurrent digestive symptoms

• Inflammatory bowel disease concerns

Capsule endoscopy can provide valuable insight into conditions affecting the small intestine that may not be visible through traditional procedures.

Before the Procedure

Patients receive preparation instructions, which may include temporary dietary restrictions or fasting prior to the exam.

During the Procedure

The patient swallows a vitamin-sized capsule containing a miniature camera. As the capsule naturally moves through the digestive tract, it records images for several hours while the patient wears a small monitoring device.

After the Procedure

The capsule passes naturally through the body and is typically eliminated without discomfort. Physicians review the recorded images to identify any abnormalities and discuss results with the patient.