Capsule Endoscopy Specialist

What is a capsule endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine your digestive tract with a tiny camera. Traditionally, they use an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on its tip. 

A capsule endoscopy, on the other hand, is a tiny wireless camera enclosed in a capsule that you swallow. As the device travels through your digestive tract, it takes thousands of images and transmits them to a recorder that you wear on a belt. 

Why would I need a capsule endoscopy?

The team at Arkansas Gastroenterology Endoscopy Center uses capsule endoscopy when they think you have a problem in your small intestine, which is challenging to examine with other diagnostic options. 

Some of the reasons your doctor might recommend a capsule endoscopy include:

• Identify the cause of gastrointestinal bleeding
• Diagnose conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and cancer
• Screen for polyps in your small intestine

Your doctor might also suggest capsule endoscopy if another test like an X-ray or MRI is inconclusive or doesn’t provide enough information to confirm your diagnosis. 

How should I prepare for a capsule endoscopy?

Your doctor gives you personalized preparation instructions. However, you should be prepared to fast for approximately 12 hours before your test. You might need to complete a bowel prep. A relatively empty digestive tract allows for more precise and detailed images. 

Make sure your physician knows about any medications, vitamins, or supplements that you take regularly. Discuss any allergies, medical disorders, or other details such as pacemakers, prior abdominal surgery, or a history of bowel obstructions. 

What happens during a capsule endoscopy?

Your doctor attaches the recording device to your belt and gives you instructions on how to use it. Then you swallow the capsule endoscope. On average, the capsule endoscope passes through your digestive tract in around eight hours. 

What should I expect after a capsule endoscopy?

Approximately two hours after you swallow the capsule, you can drink clear liquids. You can have a light meal around four hours after ingesting the device. 

You need to stay away from MRI devices during the capsule endoscopy. Your doctor might also recommend that you avoid rigorous physical activity until you excrete the capsule endoscope.

You have a follow-up appointment with your physician to review your capsule endoscopy results and discuss your next steps. 

Call Arkansas Gastroenterology Endoscopy Center or make an appointment online today for expert diagnosis of gastrointestinal diseases.