Capsule Endoscopy: What It Is, Benefits & Procedure

Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a pill into which is inserted a camera. The camera takes images of the digestive tract. It may sound like science fiction but this medical reality is s a necessity when diagnosing certain conditions.

Benefits

• Capsule endoscopy remains less invasive than a normal endoscopy, which involves inserting a tube down the patient's throat or through the rectum. A traditional endoscopy cannot always reach certain areas of the digestive tract.

Comparisons

• Images derived from a capsule endoscopy generally retain a higher and clearer quality than those originating from x-rays.

Reason

• Doctors might order a capsule endoscopy if they suspect polyps or cancerous tumors lie in the small intestine or other parts of the digestive tract.

Digestive Disorders

• A capsule endoscopy can identify such digestive disorders as gastrointestinal bleeding, celiac disease or Crohn's disease, particularly if other tests have proved inconclusive.

Considerations

• Some doctors may suggest fasting for 12 hours or taking a laxative prior to the procedure as it can greatly improve the quality of images.