Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy

If you have been experiencing issues with your small intestine or your digestive tract, your doctor may recommend a small bowel capsule endoscopy. This procedure uses advanced technology that allows your doctor to examine the entire digestive track with a small video capsule.

The video capsule is as small as a vitamin and contains a tiny video camera, transmitter, and light to record the interior of your intestine. This examination is painless and helps our El Paso gastroenterologist view the inside of your small intestine which can be difficult to test otherwise. The capsule is disposable and will be discharged by your body naturally through normal bowel movements.

The small bowel capsule endoscopy may be used if you are suffering from:

• Diarrhea
• Polyps
• Anemia
• Bleeding
• Abdominal pain
• Crohn’s disease
• Proper bowel function
• Malabsorption
• Tumors and certain cancers

Diagnostic Procedure Using Video Capsule Technology

Your small intestine cannot easily be reached with a conventional endoscopy, as it is located between the colon and stomach. Capsule endoscopy can be used to access these areas and evaluate the cause of your symptoms as well as treatment. This advanced technology works by sending the images to a recording device that you wear around your waist during the procedure.

Preparing for Your Examination

A day before the test and the day of, you may need to restrict your diet and refrain from eating solid foods. Only clear liquids should be taken. You will need to alert us of any medications that you are taking and you will need to stop eating and drinking within about 10 hours of the procedure. If you are unsure of how to prepare for your capsule endoscopy, our doctor can answer any questions that you have.