Capsule endoscopy

Procedure

Capsule endoscopy makes it possible to examine those sections of the small intestine that cannot be seen by gastroscopy or colonoscopy. No tissue samples can be obtained or interventions performed with this examination. On the day of the examination, you will come to take the capsule on an empty stomach. After a preparatory discussion, the sensors and the recording device are attached to your body for one type of capsule. The belt with the sensors and the recording device must not be removed during the examination. This examination takes about eight hours. You can drink water two hours after taking the capsule and eat normally two hours later.

The nursing staff will arrange a time with you to remove the recording device. The recorder flashes continuously if it is working properly. If the device slows down or does not flash, please contact the responsible nursing staff immediately. As the transmission of image data from the capsule to the recording device may be disturbed by interference (remote controls, radio antennas, etc.), we recommend that you remain in the hospital during data recording.

With the other capsule model, you will be instructed immediately afterwards on how to examine the stool and retrieve the capsule. The examination is therefore not possible without a returned capsule. When you are discharged, you will receive a kit containing all the materials you need.

Preparation

As with colonoscopy, an optimal examination of the small intestine requires a thorough cleansing of the bowel. Please follow the instructions for bowel cleansing exactly. The intake of iron supplements should be stopped five days before the examination.

Aftercare

After the examination you may eat and drink normally again. The capsule is excreted via the normal route. If you are using the capsule that we need for evaluation, you must contact the examiner if it is not recovered/found within one week. If you develop abdominal pain, fever or nausea during or after the examination, contact the doctor treating you or go to an emergency ward.

The use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) during the examination can lead to serious damage to the intestine and is therefore absolutely prohibited. If you are unable to clearly confirm the excretion of the capsule, an X-ray examination will be necessary later before an MRI scan is performed.