Video Capsule Endoscopy
Video capsule endoscopy uses a swallowable, pill-sized camera to capture thousands of images as it travels through the entire small intestine, an area not reachable by traditional endoscopy.
Understanding Video Capsule Endoscopy
Video capsule endoscopy is a diagnostic test that allows your gastroenterologist to examine areas of the small intestine that may not be easily reached with a standard upper endoscopy or colonoscopy. During the test, you swallow a pill-sized capsule with a tiny camera inside. As it moves naturally through the digestive tract, it takes images that are later reviewed by your provider. AGA describes small bowel capsule endoscopy as swallowing a capsule the size of a large pill with a camera inside to view the small intestine.
This test may be recommended for unexplained anemia, suspected small bowel bleeding, Crohn's Disease evaluation, ongoing GI symptoms, or abnormal findings that need further small bowel assessment. Capsule endoscopy does not require sedation, but patients must follow preparation instructions carefully. In rare cases, the capsule can become retained, especially in patients with narrowing or obstruction in the digestive tract, so your provider will determine if the test is appropriate for you.
What to Expect
We Walk You Through Every Step So You Feel Prepared, Informed, And Confident.
Before Your Procedure
- Follow a clear liquid diet the day before
- Fast overnight for at least 12 hours
- Take the prescribed bowel preparation if directed
- Wear comfortable, two-piece clothing
During the Procedure
- Sensor patches are placed on your abdomen
- Swallow the capsule with a glass of water
- Wear the recording device on your belt
- Resume light activities during the recording period
After Your Procedure
- Return the recording device after 8 hours
- The capsule passes naturally within 24-72 hours
- Your doctor reviews the images and contacts you
- Results typically available within 3-5 business days
Conditions We Address
This Procedure May Be Recommended If You Are Experiencing Any Of The Following Conditions.
Obscure GI Bleeding
Identify Bleeding Sources In The Small Intestine Not Visible On Standard Endoscopy.
Crohn's Disease
Evaluate Small Bowel Involvement And Monitor Disease Activity In Crohn's Patients.
Small Bowel Tumors
Detect Polyps, Tumors, And Other Growths In The Small Intestine.
Celiac Disease
Assess Small Bowel Mucosal Damage And Villous Atrophy.
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Investigate Unexplained Iron Deficiency When Upper And Lower Endoscopy Are Normal.
Inherited Polyposis
Surveillance Of The Small Bowel In Patients With Familial Polyposis Syndromes.
Why Choose Digestive Care
Decades Of Expertise, Advanced Technology, And A Patient-First Approach.
Sees the Unseen
Capsule Endoscopy Visualizes The Entire Small Bowel, An Area That Standard Endoscopy And Colonoscopy Cannot Reach.
Completely Painless
Simply swallow a pill-sized camera. No sedation, no tubes, no discomfort whatsoever.
Normal Daily Activity
Go about your day while the capsule records. No need to stay in the office or take time off work.
Thousands of Images
The Capsule Captures Approximately 50,000 High-Resolution Images For Thorough Small Bowel Evaluation.
Expert Interpretation
Our Gastroenterologists Have Extensive Experience Reviewing Capsule Endoscopy Studies For Accurate Diagnosis.
Results & Follow-Up Care
Preliminary findings may be reviewed after the procedure, with a follow-up visit recommended once pathology results are available to discuss detailed results and next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Capsule Easy To Swallow?
Yes. The capsule is about the size of a large vitamin pill and is smooth-coated for easy swallowing. Most patients have no difficulty at all.
Can The Capsule Get Stuck?
Capsule retention is rare, occurring in less than 2% of cases. Your doctor will assess your risk factors beforehand. In most cases, the capsule passes naturally.
What Happens To The Capsule?
The capsule is single-use and disposable. It passes naturally with a bowel movement, typically within 24-72 hours. You do not need to retrieve it.
Can I Eat During The Recording Period?
You can typically begin drinking clear liquids 2 hours after swallowing the capsule and eat a light meal after 4 hours.
How Long Until I Get Results?
Your doctor will review the capsule images, which can take several days due to the large number of images. Results are typically available within 3-5 business days.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Our team is here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you take the next step toward better digestive health.