What is Capsule Endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a small, pill-sized capsule equipped with a miniature camera and light source. As the capsule travels through the digestive system, it captures high-quality images or video of the gastrointestinal lining. These visuals are transmitted to a recording device worn by the patient, allowing doctors to review and diagnose with precision.
Who Needs Capsule Endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopy is recommended for patients experiencing unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms. It is especially beneficial for diagnosing and monitoring:
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding – For patients with recurrent bleeding, capsule endoscopy identifies the source within the small intestine.
- Crohn’s Disease – Useful for assessing severity, diagnosing, and tracking disease progression.
- Celiac Disease – Helps evaluate intestinal damage, especially in non-responsive cases.
- Tumors and Polyps – Early detection of growths can lead to timely intervention.
- Chronic Abdominal Pain – Investigates causes not visible with other imaging techniques.
- Malabsorption Disorders – Assesses intestinal health to identify the underlying causes of nutrient absorption issues.
Advantages of Capsule Endoscopy
- Non-Invasive – Unlike traditional methods, capsule endoscopy only requires swallowing a capsule, eliminating discomfort and reducing risks.
- Comprehensive Visualization – Provides full access to the small intestine, an area difficult to reach through conventional endoscopy.
- Patient Comfort – Patients can continue daily activities during the procedure. No sedation is required.
- Early Diagnosis – Detailed imaging allows for the early detection of serious gastrointestinal conditions.
- Minimized Risk – No insertion of tubes or instruments, ensuring a safer diagnostic process.
- Enhanced Compliance – Patients are more likely to undergo the procedure due to its simplicity and comfort.
The Capsule Endoscopy Process
- Preparation: Patients may need to follow dietary guidelines before the procedure.
- Swallowing the Capsule: The capsule is ingested with water.
- Monitoring: The capsule records images over 8-10 hours as it naturally moves through the digestive tract.
- Completion: The capsule is excreted naturally, and the recorded data is analyzed by our specialists.
Capsule Endoscopy at Erdem Hospital: Treatment Details
- Anesthesia – Not required.
- Duration – Approximately 8 hours.
- Stay in Istanbul – 5-7 days (including pre- and post-procedure check-ups).
- Pain Level – Completely painless.
FAQs About Capsule Endoscopy
- Why is it performed? – To diagnose bleeding, Crohn’s disease, tumors, and celiac disease in the small intestine.
- How is the capsule ingested? – It is swallowed with water.
- Is it painful? – No, the procedure is non-invasive and painless.
- Can it detect issues in the esophagus or colon? – Capsule endoscopy focuses on the small intestine and does not visualize the esophagus or colon.