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Traditional endoscopy methods often can’t reach deep enough to diagnose conditions in the small intestine. That’s where video capsule endoscopy comes in. This innovative technology provides a noninvasive, patient-friendly method for capturing detailed images of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract without the need for tubes, sedation, or recovery time.

At NYGA, our gastroenterologists use capsule endoscopy to help detect bleeding, inflammation, and other abnormalities in areas standard scopes can’t access. Here’s what you should know about how the test works and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

What is a video capsule endoscopy? 

A video capsule endoscopy is a diagnostic test that involves swallowing a small, pill-sized camera. Once ingested, the capsule travels through your digestive tract, snapping thousands of high-resolution images of the small intestine along the way. These images are wirelessly transmitted to a recorder worn on a belt around your waist or over your shoulder.

The capsule is disposable and passes naturally in your stool. There is no need to retrieve it. 

Conditions It Helps Diagnose 

Video capsule endoscopy is especially helpful for identifying conditions in the small bowel, including:

• GI bleeding of unknown origin
• Malignancy
• Inflammatory bowel diseases (like Crohn’s disease)
• Celiac disease-related damage
• Ulcers or erosions in the small intestine

It’s often recommended when other imaging tests haven’t provided clear answers or when small intestine disease is suspected.

What does a video capsule endoscopy show? 

The camera inside the capsule captures real-time color images as it moves through your small intestine. These images enable your doctor to assess the ¾«¶«Ó°Òµ of your small bowel lining and detect abnormalities, including bleeding, inflammation, lesions, or abnormal growths. It’s a valuable tool for pinpointing the cause of symptoms like chronic diarrhea, tumors, anemia, or abdominal pain when standard testing has been inconclusive.

Preparing for the Procedure 

To ensure clear images, your digestive tract needs to be as clean as possible before the test. That means you’ll need to follow specific preparation instructions from your NYGA provider, including fasting and possibly adjusting your medications.

Fasting 

You’ll need to stop eating and drinking about 12 hours before your appointment. This fasting period prevents food or liquids from obstructing the capsule’s view. After swallowing the capsule, you may be allowed to resume drinking clear liquids after a few hours and eat solid foods later in the day, as instructed by your ¾«¶«Ó°Òµcare provider.

It’s also important to wear loose-fitting clothes on the day of the test, as you’ll be fitted with a sensor belt or recording device.

How long does a video capsule endoscopy take? 

The entire process, from swallowing the capsule to its natural exit, takes about eight hours. However, you won’t need to stay at the doctor’s office that whole time. After the capsule is ingested and the recording equipment is secured, you’ll go about your typical day. You’ll return the equipment later so your gastroenterologist can download and review the images.

It’s a simple, safe, and effective way to gain insight into the most challenging-to-reach areas of your digestive system, without the need for anesthesia, incisions, or time off work. 

If you’re experiencing unexplained digestive symptoms and haven’t found answers through standard tests, video capsule endoscopy might be right for you. Talk to a NYGA gastroenterologist to learn more about this advanced diagnostic tool and whether it’s the right step for your care.

 

Don’t wait—prioritize your ¾«¶«Ó°Òµ today.