Everything You Need You Need to Know About Video Capsule Endoscopy

Video capsule endoscopy is a groundbreaking procedure that allows doctors to look inside your digestive tract without invasive surgery. It offers a unique way to diagnose and monitor conditions in areas that traditional methods can’t easily reach, such as the small intestine.

What Is Video Capsule Endoscopy?

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) involves swallowing a small capsule that contains a camera. This capsule takes thousands of pictures as it travels through your digestive system. It helps doctors examine areas that are hard to access with regular endoscopes, such as the small intestine. The device worn on your body receives the images, allowing them to be reviewed later.

How Does It Work?

The capsule is about the size of a vitamin and you can easily swallow it. Once you swallow it, the capsule moves naturally through your digestive tract. As it travels, it captures high-quality images of your intestines. It then sends these images wirelessly to a recorder that you wear on a belt or shoulder strap.

The capsule doesn’t require any incisions, making the procedure non-invasive. Unlike traditional endoscopies, you won’t need sedation. The process is typically painless, and you can return to your normal activities after swallowing the capsule.

Why Is Video Capsule Endoscopy Used?

Video capsule endoscopy is primarily used for diagnosing issues in the small intestine, such as:

●       Bleeding: It can locate sources of unexplained bleeding in the digestive system.

●       Inflammatory conditions: It helps detect Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and other conditions that cause inflammation in the small intestine.

●       Tumors: The capsule can identify tumors or growths that might otherwise go unnoticed.

●       Obstructions: It helps doctors spot blockages in the digestive tract.

While the capsule can’t take biopsies or perform treatments like a traditional endoscope, it’s excellent for gathering visual information.

Benefits of Video Capsule Endoscopy

Video capsule endoscopy offers several advantages over other diagnostic tools.

●       Non-invasive: This procedure eliminates the need for sedation or incisions. It allows doctors to examine your digestive tract without causing harm or discomfort.

●       Comfortable: You won’t experience the discomfort often associated with traditional procedures. Since there’s no need for sedation, you can carry on with your routine immediately afterward.

●       Clearer Images: The camera in the capsule captures detailed, high-resolution images. These images help doctors gain a clearer view of hard-to-reach areas of your digestive system.

●       Quick Recovery: After swallowing the capsule, there’s no downtime. You can go back to your daily activities as soon as you’ve completed the procedure.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Before the procedure, your doctor will ask you to fast for a few hours to help the capsule capture clear pictures of your digestive system. On the day of the procedure, you will swallow the capsule, and the device attached to your body will start recording. You will wear the recording device for up to 8 hours, depending on the procedure's duration.

Afterward, you will return the recording device to your healthcare provider. A specialist will analyze the images and discuss the findings with you.

If you're experiencing unexplained digestive symptoms or need a thorough evaluation, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider to find the best diagnostic option for your needs. At California Digestive Disease Center, we can help you uncover the cause of your symptoms with our advanced video capsule endoscopy services. Schedule your consultation today!