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Capsule Endoscopy

Endoscopy Procedure in Broadway

Capsule Endoscopy, also known as Video Capsule Endoscopy or Wireless Capsule Endoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure that involves using a capsule with a tiny camera fixed inside it. The capsule, when swallowed, helps in taking pictures of the gastrointestinal tract, which are transmitted to a recorder with the aid of sensors attached to the patient’s body. The recorder then uses the system to combine all the pictures into a video, which helps specialists identify and diagnose any problems in the gastrointestinal tract. 

  • Pre-procedure: Certain instructions, including eating, fasting, and medications, are given during your initial consultation to prepare you for the day of the procedure.

  • Procedure: Before the procedure, sensors, depending on the type of capsule and the preference of our specialist, are attached. This could be either a sensor array, which is placed on the belly and chest, or a sensor belt, which will be placed around your waist. A recorder is also given that receives data from the capsule. After the necessary preparations, the capsule is activated, and you will be advised to swallow it with a sip of water. 

  • Post-procedure: The procedure does not require any specialised post-procedure monitoring or attention. However, individualised post-care instructions are given.   

If you are looking for capsule endoscopy in Kolkata, consult the experts at Manipal Hospitals.

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FAQ's

Some reasons specialists consider patients to undergo a Capsule Endoscopy include:

  • Gastrointestinal bleeding that is present in the small intestine

  • Diagnosis and evaluation of Crohn’s disease, coeliac disease, and polyposis syndrome

  • Detection of small intestine tumours in early and advanced stages

  • Evaluation of oesophagus, particularly oesophageal varices, Barret’s oesophagus, or oesophagitis

  • Screening of colon cancer

  • Unexplained weight loss or anaemia, severe abdominal pain, bloody stool, nausea or vomiting, or other symptoms that may be related to gastrointestinal problems

  • Inability to perform Colonoscopy or other conventional screening procedures

  • As a follow-up test, if conventional imaging tests show inconclusive results

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Some general instructions involved before undergoing the Capsule Endoscopy procedure include:

  • Refraining from eating or drinking at least 12 hours before the procedure. However, you can stick to a clear liquid diet that consists of soups or juice.

  • Clearing your gastrointestinal tract with laxatives before the procedure will give a clear view of your gut.

  • Informing our specialists of any existing co-morbidities, allergies, or medications, such as over-the-counter medications or supplements.

  • Notifying our specialists of your medical history, especially any past experiences of bowel obstructions, and any cardiac device implantations (ICD), such as defibrillators or pacemakers.

  • Asking questions or conveying any concerns or worries related to the procedure.

  • Shaving your belly or chest area for secure attachment of recorders and sensors.

  • Wearing loose-fitting clothes during the procedure

  • Abstaining from smoking or chewing tobacco for at least 24 hours prior to the procedure.

The functional pace of the digestive tract is unique to every individual. Usually, capsules take approximately 8 hours to travel through the body and reach the gastrointestinal tract. However, it may take around 24 hours or a few days for the capsule to leave the body naturally. Capsule Endoscopies with inbuilt data storage may have to be retrieved after they pass through the body. It is necessary to inform our specialist if the capsule doesn't pass within two weeks. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, will be used to locate the capsule, followed by medications or interventions if necessary to remove the capsule.
 

Possible risks or complications that may manifest during or after Capsule Endoscopy involve: 

  • Retention of the capsule inside the gastrointestinal tract, especially for patients with Crohn's disease

  • Rarely, aspiration due to ingestion of capsule

  • Cricopharyngeal impaction 

  • Internal injury, mainly due to exposure to electromagnetic fields, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Certain factors, such as obstruction, pregnancy, past GI surgery, difficulty swallowing, or gastroparesis, characterised by paralysis of the stomach, can lead to modification of the procedure or recommending alternative diagnostic procedures. 
 

There are no specific restrictions on following normal routines, and individuals can perform normal activities post-procedure. Moreover, the procedure is comfortable and does not cause any pain. However, you may feel uncomfortable when sensors are attached to your chest and belly. You will have to avoid doing heavy exercise, lifts, or activities that include strenuous labour. Furthermore, specialists may advise you against undergoing an MRI for at least 30 days. You are also allowed to drive after the procedure since the procedure does not require the administration of anaesthesia or sedatives. 
 

Since the images captured during Capsule Endoscopies are compiled into videos, reviewing these videos to identify any issues and reporting them can take at least a week or two, although this can vary depending on the urgency of an individual’s treatment. Sometimes, results from Capsule Endoscopy can be non-reliable due to limitations, such as the capsule’s inability to concentrate on the area of the GI tract that appears suspicious and inside folds of the digestive tract lining. Also, obstruction of the camera view due to the presence of mucus or other gastrointestinal substances can impact the results. In that case, specialists may recommend alternative tests for a precise diagnosis.
 

You should seek medical attention if you exhibit any one or a combination of symptoms after undergoing Capsule Endoscopy, which includes:

  • Abdominal pain or swelling

  • Chest pain

  • Dehydration

  • Constipation

  • High-temperature fever or chills

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Loss of appetite

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