What is a capsule endoscopy?
This procedure involves the patient swallowing a standard-sized capsule that contains a tiny, wireless camera. As the camera travels through the digestive tract, it transmits thousands of images to a video monitor. This procedure was designed to examine the small intestine, an organ that is typically difficult to access. However, this procedure can allow your doctor to examine other parts of the digestive tract, as well.
Reasons to undergo a capsule endoscopy
- Screen for polyps.
- Find the cause of intestinal bleeding.
- Diagnose a variety of illnesses, including: celiac disease, inflammatory bowel diseases and cancer.
- Provide follow-up for an inconclusive imaging test.
