Capsule Endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, particularly the small intestine, which is difficult to reach with traditional endoscopy or colonoscopy. During the procedure, the patient swallows a pill-sized capsule that contains a miniature camera, light source, and transmitter.

As the capsule travels naturally through the digestive system, it captures thousands of images and transmits them to a data recorder worn on the patient’s body. These images are later reviewed by a healthcare professional to detect abnormalities such as bleeding, inflammation, ulcers, tumours, or signs of Crohn's disease.

The procedure is non-invasive, painless, and typically takes around 8 hours. The capsule is usually passed naturally in the stool within a day or two.

It is commonly recommended for patients with unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding, suspected small bowel disorders, or iron deficiency anaemia.

Proper preparation helps ensure clear images and accurate results during a capsule endoscopy. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions, but general preparation usually includes the following steps:

• Fasting/following a specific dietary plan the day prior to your capsule appointment.
• Bowel preparation - you will be asked to take a bowel prep solution the evening before the procedure to help clear the small intestine for better visibility.

Day of the test

You will arrive the morning of the test to the clinic and swallow the capsule with water. It is about the size of a large vitamin pill. You will have a sensor belt attached to you under your clothing.

• After swallowing the capsule you will remain at the clinic for about 30minutes to check it has travelled from your stomach to your small intestines.
• You can then go home or continue normal daily activities (but avoid vigorous exercise or bending over).
• You can drink clear fluids 2 hours after swallowing the capsule, and after 4 hours, you may be allowed a light meal.
• Avoid being near MRI machines until the capsule has passed.
• After about 8 hours, you’ll return the data recorder to the clinic and then continue with life as normal. The health professionals will read the report and advise you/GP/referring specialist of the results and if any further appointments or treatment is required.
• The capsule usually passes naturally in your stool within 1–2 days. You do not need to retrieve it unless instructed otherwise.
• Contact your doctor if you have abdominal pain, vomiting, or have not seen the capsule pass after several days.

Capsule endoscopy is considered safe, though in rare cases, the capsule may become stuck in a narrowed area of the intestine, requiring further medical intervention or incomplete examination because the capsule has not passed through the entire small bowel.

Capsule Retention - The most significant risk is that the capsule may get stuck (retained) in a narrowed or blocked area of the digestive tract, particularly in patients with Crohn’s disease, tumours, or previous abdominal surgery. Retention may not cause symptoms, but in some cases, it can lead to obstruction, requiring medical or surgical removal.

Most patients complete the procedure without complications. A detailed medical history and possibly a patency capsule (a dissolvable test capsule) may be used beforehand to assess risk, especially if there's a concern about strictures or blockages.

To help you prepare for your procedure a copy of key information is provided here for you to download and print.

• We advise you to apply to your insurance company for prior approval before your admission.
• Bring your health insurance prior approval letter to your appointment.
• With the exception of Southern Cross, once your account has been finalised, we will forward your invoice to your insurance company.
• If you do not have medical insurance or prior approval from your medical insurance, we will advise you of total cost of your procedure and full payment will be required on the day of your testing.