Capsule endoscopy

Category: Endoscopy & Camera Tests · All endoscopy & camera tests

What it is

Capsule endoscopy uses a camera the size of a large vitamin capsule, which you swallow. As it travels naturally through the digestive system it takes thousands of pictures, transmitted to a recorder you wear, mainly to examine the small bowel that standard scopes cannot reach.

Why it is done

It is used to look for causes of unexplained bleeding or anaemia, suspected Crohn's disease of the small bowel and other small-bowel problems.

How to prepare

You will fast beforehand and may take bowel preparation so the views are clear. Tell the team if you have a pacemaker or implanted device, swallowing difficulties, or a known bowel narrowing — a dissolvable test capsule may be used first in that case.

What happens during the procedure

You swallow the capsule with water in clinic and wear a sensor belt and recorder for about 8 hours while you go about the day (usually at home or work). You can usually drink after a couple of hours and eat lightly later, following the unit's timings. The capsule passes naturally in the stool and does not need to be retrieved in most cases.

Afterwards — recovery & results

You return the recorder the next day. The pictures are reviewed — this takes some days — and the report goes to your doctor. If you develop abdominal pain, vomiting or the capsule is not seen to pass, contact the team.

Risks & considerations

The main risk is the capsule getting stuck at a narrowing (retention), which occasionally needs an endoscopy or surgery to retrieve. This is uncommon and screening questions reduce the risk. The capsule is single-use and disposable.

Frequently asked questions

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