Video Capsule Endoscopy: About This Test

What is video capsule endoscopy?

Video capsule endoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to look for bleeding in your small intestine. It can also help find tumors or other problems. You swallow a pill-sized capsule that contains a small camera. The camera takes pictures of your small intestine as the capsule passes through your gastrointestinal tract. The pictures are saved to a recording device that you may wear around your waist. Your doctor will review the pictures after the test is done. This test lets your doctor view parts of the small intestine that can't be easily reached with other tests. The capsule will pass from your body in your stool. You won't feel anything as the capsule moves through.

Why is this test done?

• This test lets your doctor see the inner lining or wall of the small intestine.
• Your doctor can look for the cause of bleeding in the intestine.
• The test may help your doctor diagnose a problem like an ulcer, a tumor, or inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease.

How do you prepare for the test?

• Your doctor will tell you when to stop eating and drinking before the test.
• Your doctor will tell you if you need to drink a special liquid or take a tablet to clean out your digestive system.
• Tell your doctor about any medicine that you take, any allergies you have, and any medical devices that you have in your body.

How is the test done?

• You will be asked to swallow a small capsule with a sip of water. It contains a tiny video camera. You won't have a tube inserted down your throat, as is done in some other endoscopies. You won't need to stay in the hospital. And you won't need pain medicine.
• You will be awake while the capsule moves through your gastrointestinal tract. You won't feel the capsule moving. As the capsule passes through your system, the camera will take pictures and send them to the recording device that you may wear around your waist.
• After the test has started, you may be able to leave the doctor's office for a few hours. You may be able to go about your daily activities during the test. Avoid bending and any vigorous activity. Your doctor will tell you when to come back to the office.
• After several hours, you may be able to drink some fluids and have a small snack or meal. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• During the hours of the test, you may use the toilet to urinate.
• If you pass stool during the hours of the test, follow these instructions:
  • If the light on the recording device is still blinking, check to make sure the video capsule has not passed in your stool. If you find the capsule, don't flush it. Contact your doctor right away for instructions on how to collect the capsule.
  • If the light on the recording device is no longer blinking, contact your doctor right away.
• The pictures in the recording tool can be looked at during the test or later.
• The capsule should pass out of your body in your stool in a day or two. If it doesn't, your doctor may have you get an X-ray to see where it is. You will get instructions on which type of capsule is being used for your test and if you need to collect it from your stool.

How long does the test take?

The capsule records pictures for 8 hours or longer. You will get instructions on when to return to the office depending on which type of capsule is being used for your test.

What are the risks?

• Video capsule endoscopy is generally safe. In very rare cases, the video capsule could get stuck in the small intestine.
• Your doctor may also tell you to avoid having a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test during this time until the capsule passes in your stool.

What happens after the test?

• Your doctor should have the results of the test in a week or two.
• Depending on the results, you might need other tests.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to keep a list of the medicines you take. Ask your doctor when you can expect to have your test results.