- Location: 1507 S Hiawassee Rd Ste 105, Orlando, FL 32835
This is a type of endoscopy in which a patient swallows a small capsule that contains a tiny camera. As the capsule travels through the gastrointestinal system, the camera records data and sends it to a sensor attached to a belt worn by the patient. In a day or so, the camera and capsule are expelled from the body in a bowel movement.
While a traditional endoscope contains small instruments that can treat symptoms and scrape tissue for biopsy, capsule endoscopy can only collect and send data.
At Orlando Gastroenterology, physicians use this diagnostic technology to identify sources of bleeding; diagnose digestive tract polyps and tumors; and identify inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and other illnesses and conditions.
Preparing for capsule endoscopy is similar to preparing for traditional endoscopy. Healthcare staff instruct patients to fast overnight, take laxatives, and postpone taking regular medications.
The procedure itself involves being fitted with a belt that holds a sensor and swallowing a capsule that contains the data recording device.
A capsule reaches parts of the small intestine that a conventional endoscope cannot. That is its main advantage. The trade-off is that a capsule only records images — it cannot take a biopsy, remove a polyp or treat bleeding. If the capsule finds something that needs action, a follow-up procedure is usually arranged.
For most people, yes, and no sedation is needed. The main risk is the capsule becoming stuck in a narrowed section of bowel, which is why your physician will ask about previous abdominal surgery, known strictures or Crohn’s disease before recommending it. Tell your physician if you have a pacemaker or other implanted device.
You fast overnight, swallow the capsule at our office, then go about a normal day wearing the recording belt. You can usually eat a few hours in. The capsule passes naturally in a bowel movement within a day or so and does not need to be retrieved.
To discuss this with a gastroenterologist, call (407) 445-9224 or book at one of our four Orlando-area offices.
