Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy in Manhattan
What Is A Small Bowel Capsule Study?
A small bowel capsule study, also known as a capsule endoscopy or pillcam, is a procedure that involves ingesting a small capsule that passes naturally through the digestive system. The pill-sized capsule is a video camera that has its own light source and takes pictures of your small intestine as it passes through. These pictures are then transmitted to a small recording device worn on the body. The test typically lasts for 8-12 hours, after which the data recorder will be removed and the images will be downloaded for your physician to view them. The capsule will be excreted naturally in a bowel movement.
What Are The Goals Of A Capsule Endoscopy?
A capsule endoscopy is used to examine and evaluate the small intestine, which is part of the bowel that cannot be reached through traditional upper endoscopy or a colonoscopy.
The most common reason for doing a capsule endoscopy is to identify the cause for bleeding from the small intestine. Additionally, capsule endoscopies are useful for detecting polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers and tumors of the small intestine.
Individuals with Celiac disease can also benefit from capsule endoscopy as it gives a definitive diagnosis and monitors intestinal inflammation without the need for an invasive procedure.
The Small Bowel Capsule Study Procedure
Prior to a small bowel capsule study, patients should not eat or drink for approximately 12 hours, in order to ensure the best and safest examination. Most patients consider the test to be comfortable. The capsule swallowed is about the size of a large pill. Generally, you can have clear liquids for the first two hours after swallowing the tablet and a light meal four to six hours after the start of the procedure. You should avoid strenuous activity during the test, but you should be able to go about your usual routine throughout the exam.
How Long Will It Take To See The Results Of My Small Bowel Capsule Study?
After your doctor uploads the images and analyzes them, the results will be shared with you. Typically, your test results will be obtained within a week following the procedure, but in some cases the diagnosis may take slightly longer.
What Are The Benefits Of Getting A Capsule Endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopy allows a gastroenterologist to view the middle regions of the gastrointestinal tract, by providing detailed, up-to-date images of your intestinal lining. Conditions that were once challenging to diagnose by other non-surgical means are often revealed by a small bowel capsule study. Another major advantage of capsule endoscopy is that it involves zero recovery time and has minimal impact on your day-to-day life.
Schedule A Consultation
If you have any symptoms that may warrant a small bowel capsule endoscopy study, the first step is scheduling a consultation with an experienced gastroenterologist. Park Avenue Medical Professionals is home to physicians who specialize in gastrointestinal disorders and we are known for our compassionate care and personalized approach. Schedule an appointment today by contacting our office at 212.427.2000. You can also make an appointment by filling out this form.
