Your doctor may determine that a capsule endoscopy of the small bowel is necessary for further evaluation of your condition. You must have a Colonoscopy and Endoscopy performed first and have a history of anemia. Capsule endoscopy with PillCam video will provide your doctor with pictures of your small intestine.

What is PillCam Capsule Endoscopy of the small bowel?

Capsule Endoscopy with the PillCam video enables the doctor to examine your entire small intestine. You will need to ingest a video capsule that has its own cameras and light source (it is the size of a vitamin capsule). You may move freely during the exam, which lasts about eight hours. While the video capsule travels through your body, it sends images to a data recorder you will wear close to your waist. These images will be viewed and reported on by the Doctor.

Preparation

You will receive preparation instructions before the examination. You will need to have an empty stomach which allows optimal viewing. We will inform you when you need to start fasting. You will need to inform us at the time of making the appointment regarding any medications as you may have to adjust your usual dose for the examination. You will also need to inform us if you have a pacemaker or other electro medical devices, have had any abdominal surgery, swallowing problems, or previous history of obstructions in the gastrointestinal tract.

What can I expect during Pillcam Capsule Endoscopy?

The nurse will prepare you for the examination by applying a sensor array to your abdomen with adhesive sleeves. The video capsule is swallowed with water and passes naturally through your digestive tract while transmitting video images to a data recorder that you wear close to your waist. You will be able to eat four hours after the capsule ingestion unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. The examination is over approximately eight hours after the capsule was ingested.

What happens after Pillcam Capsule Endoscopy?

At the end of the procedure, the data recorder and sensor array will be removed and the images acquired during your exam will then be downloaded to a workstation for your doctor to review. After ingesting the capsule and until it is excreted, you should not have an MRI or be in the vicinity of one.

How will I know the results?

After you return the equipment, your doctor will download the information from the data recorder and will view a colour video of the pictures taken by the capsule. After the doctor has looked at the video, you will be contacted with the results.