12.11 : Endoscopic Procedures III: Video Capsule Endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy, or wireless or video capsule endoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure for examining the entire gastrointestinal tract. Patients swallow a capsule about the size of a vitamin tablet. The capsule is equipped with a transmitter, a battery, an LED light source, and a color video camera to capture images throughout the gastrointestinal tract. This procedure is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, tumors, polyps, ulcers, unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal pain, and celiac disease.

Preparation

Patients must refrain from eating or drinking (NPO) for eight hours before the procedure to ensure an empty stomach. The evening before, laxatives are administered to cleanse the bowel. On the day of the procedure, a technician attaches adhesive sensors to the patient's chest and abdomen. The sensors link to a wireless data recorder worn by the patient at the waist.

During the Procedure

After swallowing the capsule with water, patients can resume their usual daily activities but should avoid strenuous activities, sudden movements, or bending for the next eight hours. The capsule travels through the gastrointestinal tract, capturing images stored in the data recorder. Two hours after swallowing the capsule, patients are allowed to drink clear liquids, and after four hours, they can have a light snack and take any necessary medications.

Post-Procedure

Eight hours post-ingestion, patients return to the medical facility to have the sensors and data recorder removed, and the images captured by the capsule are analyzed. The capsule is usually expelled through a bowel movement within a few hours to a few days after the procedure. Patients should consult their healthcare provider if the capsule has not passed within five days. There are no restrictions following the procedure, allowing patients to resume their normal activities immediately. A follow-up appointment is typically arranged to discuss the results.