Capsule endoscopy is a cutting-edge diagnostic tool that allows our gastroenterologists at GastroCare LI to examine the small intestine in a non-invasive way. This technology involves swallowing a tiny, camera-equipped capsule that captures thousands of images as it moves through your digestive tract. It’s especially useful for detecting sources of bleeding, inflammation, or abnormal growths in the small bowel.
Traditional imaging methods often miss diseases in the small intestine, but capsule endoscopy fills that gap. It is frequently used to evaluate patients with unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding, suspected Crohn’s disease, or obscure abdominal pain. At GastroCare LI, we use this test when other diagnostics like colonoscopy or upper endoscopy are inconclusive.
The procedure is simple: after swallowing the capsule, you can go about your day normally while the device transmits images wirelessly to a recorder. Our team later analyzes the footage to identify any abnormalities. It’s completely painless and doesn’t require sedation.
Capsule endoscopy is both safe and effective, offering a complete view of an otherwise hard-to-reach area of your digestive system. It’s a powerful diagnostic option available right here in Valley Stream, NY.
If your doctor has recommended deeper investigation of your digestive tract, schedule your capsule endoscopy today at GastroCare LI by calling (516) 825-8484.
What is capsule endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopy is a diagnostic tool that uses a tiny device to gather imaging of your digestive tract. The device is shaped like a capsule and contains a camera that takes thousands of photos as it moves through your digestive system.
The capsule is small enough to pass completely through your digestive tract without causing harm. Capsule endoscopy allows your gastroenterologist to assess areas of your digestive tract that other options simply cannot access.
Why would I need to have a capsule endoscopy?
This exciting diagnostic option is used in several ways. Some of the reasons your specialist might suggest capsule endoscopy include:
- Examining the lining of your esophagus
- Searching for the cause of gastrointestinal bleeding
- Diagnosing cancer
- Screening for polyps
- Diagnosing celiac disease
- Searching for signs of Crohn’s disease
Capsule endoscopy also offers the chance to follow up after other forms of imaging like X-rays.
What is the process like for getting capsule endoscopy?
It’s important to avoid eating and drinking for a period of 12 hours leading up to your procedure. The team at GastroCare LI might also advise you to take a laxative to flush out your small intestine prior to capsule endoscopy.
Placing the capsule is an incredibly simple process. You simply swallow it with water. The device is shaped like a large vitamin and is coated with a special material to make it easier to swallow. Once you swallow the capsule, you won’t be able to feel it as it moves through your digestive tract.
You’ll wear a recording device in a bag or special belt. The device gathers the images from the capsule and stores them. You may be asked to wait a couple of hours before you can drink clear beverages and before you eat a light meal.
There is nothing left to do but wait until you have your next few bowel movements. It’s important to look to see if the capsule was expelled with your stool. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days for the capsule to make its way out of your body. There is no need to collect the device; you can simply flush it down the toilet.
If you’d like more information about capsule endoscopy, book a visit online or by phone today.