Capsule Endoscopy of the Small Intestine

Capsule endoscopy is a procedure which allows the doctor to examine the lining of your small intestine. This part of your digestive tract cannot be reached by traditional upper endoscopy or lower endoscopy. The small bowel capsule is an indigestible camera, in a pill about the size of a large vitamin that you swallow. As the capsule travels through your digestive system, the camera takes tens of thousands of picture of the inside of your small intestines. The pictures are transmitted to a sensor belt worn around your abdomen which is attached to a data recorder you will also be wearing. The procedure takes 8 to 12 hours during which time you may perform most routine activities. At the end of the test, the belt and data recorder are returned and the data will be downloaded for review by your physician. The capsule leaves your body when you have a bowel movement and does not need to be retrieved. Capsule endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure and cannot be used to biopsy or treat findings.